tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91256985077721066312018-12-18T03:33:44.853-06:00Prairie Rose's GardenNotes from a beginning gardener with sprinkles of poetry and philosophic musingsRosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.comBlogger502125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-73147217248144578372018-10-08T16:03:00.000-05:002018-10-08T16:03:29.279-05:00Returning to the GardenIt has been awhile since I have written a blog post, but it's also been awhile since I've done much in the garden.&nbsp; When August arrives and dried stalks and brown seedheads are the only reminders of the daylilies and coneflowers that once brightened my garden, I get the gardening doldrums.&nbsp; Keeping all the containers and new plants watered in the summer heat is enough to get me dripping with sweat, and I prefer to retreat into the cool indoors.&nbsp; It's also been a busy time for family: in mid-August my daughter and family arrived for a visit from Texas, and it's always a joy to spend time with the little ones I only see a few times of year.&nbsp; Before they left, my dad had some health problems and was hospitalized for almost a week and needed extra help when he returned home.&nbsp; Then the local grandkids started their fall sports season, and we have been busy attending volleyball, baseball, and soccer games, and cross-country meets.&nbsp; My calendar is full!<br /><br />I'm not complaining, however; with over a month's hiatus, I'm ready to get back into the garden for fall chores--if it ever cools down and stops raining, that is!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNvn3dGS5oQ/W7qR9uGhExI/AAAAAAAAQdo/OyTgnxTCQ5Yqjq0HpkWg6wpT4SoEgYrawCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1172%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1307" data-original-width="1600" height="522" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNvn3dGS5oQ/W7qR9uGhExI/AAAAAAAAQdo/OyTgnxTCQ5Yqjq0HpkWg6wpT4SoEgYrawCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1172%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Though the bright blooms of mid-summer have long since faded, there have been some new blooms to replace them.&nbsp; 'Heavenly Blue' and 'Flying Saucers' morning glory seeds were planted in a pot in early summer, but I thought they would never bloom.&nbsp; The vines grew taller and taller and meandered through the dried coneflowers, but finally some blooms appeared.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOl8Kudwqpk/W7qR_1PlaYI/AAAAAAAAQds/HM0UkXD-T8kk_f_0bzmJ9s-jz0odHefHgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1129%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1293" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uOl8Kudwqpk/W7qR_1PlaYI/AAAAAAAAQds/HM0UkXD-T8kk_f_0bzmJ9s-jz0odHefHgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1129%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="516" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I usually plant a variety of leftover seeds in an old whiskey barrel planter at the back of the garden and then forget to water it.&nbsp; A few hardy seeds survived the neglect like this tall Celosia (name forgotten).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yt19BiOz0IE/W7oMA_xmabI/AAAAAAAAQc4/MkKE--WwdXclVMOhvEaJgEJtLbPHykesgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0946%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yt19BiOz0IE/W7oMA_xmabI/AAAAAAAAQc4/MkKE--WwdXclVMOhvEaJgEJtLbPHykesgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0946%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A favorite,<i> Rudbeckia</i> 'Prairie Sun' also survived.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kga4YPoQIu0/W7qdj9O0hNI/AAAAAAAAQgg/CZLbOhXWtT8JQoABlQk0Cg5JqVj26bzSgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0759%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1233" data-original-width="1600" height="492" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kga4YPoQIu0/W7qdj9O0hNI/AAAAAAAAQgg/CZLbOhXWtT8JQoABlQk0Cg5JqVj26bzSgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0759%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Late August brought the Zinnias, including my favorite 'Zowie Yellow Flame.'&nbsp;</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B49l8fj2iaA/W7tbCwov9AI/AAAAAAAAQgs/5Qw8IiyYJB4pwQFJnDgdzE_PnxR_S0CtwCLcBGAs/s1600/Zowies%2B18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1120" data-original-width="1425" height="502" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B49l8fj2iaA/W7tbCwov9AI/AAAAAAAAQgs/5Qw8IiyYJB4pwQFJnDgdzE_PnxR_S0CtwCLcBGAs/s640/Zowies%2B18.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />&nbsp;They are looking a bit more tattered now in October, but from a distance they still look good and add some bright fall color, especially in the roadside garden above.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a2W_uyzcVIw/W7oOTrboICI/AAAAAAAAQdQ/pZ1XKKkA7ycW8DcNM_TsJ3cXHZ7MWgOggCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0922%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1583" data-original-width="1600" height="632" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a2W_uyzcVIw/W7oOTrboICI/AAAAAAAAQdQ/pZ1XKKkA7ycW8DcNM_TsJ3cXHZ7MWgOggCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0922%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Other zinnias in shades of pink, orange, red, and purple are still going strong&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">and providing nectar for the late butterflies.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCZEzrcA-2o/W7qSEeggV-I/AAAAAAAAQdw/ujHd2gZSb_0xRCCHS4hJHQDAz1nbsOaEACEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN1127%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="1600" height="494" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VCZEzrcA-2o/W7qSEeggV-I/AAAAAAAAQdw/ujHd2gZSb_0xRCCHS4hJHQDAz1nbsOaEACEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN1127%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Speaking of butterflies, I thought the Monarchs might have all migrated, but this afternoon I saw several floating through the garden.&nbsp; They were enjoying some late blooms, but their favorite was the Tithonia.&nbsp; The Tithonia planting was an accident--I think I dropped some seeds here--but I definitely need to plant more of this on purpose next year, because it really is a butterfly magnet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xYRVCPDUW68/W7qSgad3kKI/AAAAAAAAQeA/8O8nORYSNTE1NmtIbl8Z2OvktPozLBXkgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1152%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1183" data-original-width="1600" height="472" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xYRVCPDUW68/W7qSgad3kKI/AAAAAAAAQeA/8O8nORYSNTE1NmtIbl8Z2OvktPozLBXkgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1152%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />"Better late than never"--I have no idea what took the Cosmos so long to bloom, but I'm happy to see them, especially since most of the flowers around them have finished.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BHDCtSmT8N8/W7qS9O9qONI/AAAAAAAAQeM/hgqTw_DMaCIESb3Al0NaAbM6608MKTMPACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0899%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1243" data-original-width="1600" height="496" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BHDCtSmT8N8/W7qS9O9qONI/AAAAAAAAQeM/hgqTw_DMaCIESb3Al0NaAbM6608MKTMPACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0899%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />There are some new perennial blooms as well--this is the first time I've ever seen blooms on my hardy Begonia.&nbsp; I bought this plant because I love the foliage and have been surprised it has survived in my zone 5b garden.&nbsp; These sweet little blooms are an added bonus.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d_uF-55X6go/W7qU330TT_I/AAAAAAAAQfA/Q-byGdpiQhItuyW_w387m8-bu0H-qBEagCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0900%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1323" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d_uF-55X6go/W7qU330TT_I/AAAAAAAAQfA/Q-byGdpiQhItuyW_w387m8-bu0H-qBEagCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0900%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Turtleheads, <i>Chelone</i>, are a welcome sight in the shade garden as the hostas begin to die back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F2_fMoyS9L8/W7qV9T_y9FI/AAAAAAAAQfY/U705oe-CPAkLtd8uK8RWtmLYcXaZdBfVwCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN1094%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1215" data-original-width="1600" height="486" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F2_fMoyS9L8/W7qV9T_y9FI/AAAAAAAAQfY/U705oe-CPAkLtd8uK8RWtmLYcXaZdBfVwCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN1094%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Many of the annuals are starting to fizzle out this time of year, but the Lantana is going strong in the Lily Bed.&nbsp; I think it has doubled in size in the last month!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kKV2CfYzPTI/W7qTXDtmHUI/AAAAAAAAQeU/40f7yYK9dDEtt-ZkSqGbw9cthoE_-4RZQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0887%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1308" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kKV2CfYzPTI/W7qTXDtmHUI/AAAAAAAAQeU/40f7yYK9dDEtt-ZkSqGbw9cthoE_-4RZQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0887%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="522" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Coleus are also going strong and have taken over a couple of pots, which is fine with me.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BiFptupPZ20/W7qTY4VE5BI/AAAAAAAAQeY/zGbsbfbFyT8Dmtws2YLUvR-D0gkAf4OnQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0888%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BiFptupPZ20/W7qTY4VE5BI/AAAAAAAAQeY/zGbsbfbFyT8Dmtws2YLUvR-D0gkAf4OnQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0888%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Many of my containers are looking pretty sad right now, so it's a good time to evaluate what plants do best in our long summers.&nbsp; All the begonias are looking great, but especially this dragon-wing begonia.&nbsp; This is one plant I definitely want to try to over-winter indoors.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AGcbTT2GxOk/W7tbda5D70I/AAAAAAAAQg0/w2MagwUyEBoOWsBGKQHt6GBnpRz2CP6AQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1178%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1495" data-original-width="1600" height="598" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AGcbTT2GxOk/W7tbda5D70I/AAAAAAAAQg0/w2MagwUyEBoOWsBGKQHt6GBnpRz2CP6AQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1178%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Supertunia Vista 'Silverberry' is one of the few petunias still looking good.&nbsp; I've replaced a few plants elsewhere with fall annuals, like mums, kale, and pansies, but I don't get too carried away with fall plantings.&nbsp; Autumn is just too short a season here to make it worth my time or money--we're still in the 80's, yet a frost could happen any day.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DDza8Ovs_-A/W7qVDtnsVUI/AAAAAAAAQew/isginAGhbX0Q-uHky14j-C5buD0EcRGvwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0949%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DDza8Ovs_-A/W7qVDtnsVUI/AAAAAAAAQew/isginAGhbX0Q-uHky14j-C5buD0EcRGvwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0949%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Though the summer-like temperatures are still hanging around, it definitely feels like fall.&nbsp; Days are getting shorter, and there are subtle changes all around.&nbsp; I took this photo of our lane a month ago, more for my benefit than to post it.&nbsp; The trees lining the lane are all flowering crabapples, and they have never looked as good as this year.&nbsp; The leaves are beginning to turn and drop now, but usually they look that way in August.&nbsp; I think consistent rain throughout the summer really made a difference this year.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2-5-m2CRvUs/W7qVFrwSyEI/AAAAAAAAQe0/IpgWyiy1RxY0hyxJVihjSv4tfeukpIcSwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0957%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1267" data-original-width="1600" height="506" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2-5-m2CRvUs/W7qVFrwSyEI/AAAAAAAAQe0/IpgWyiy1RxY0hyxJVihjSv4tfeukpIcSwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0957%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">And every tree is full of fruit--no wonder my yard is filled with birds!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n6Zw7q76_5s/W7oLwQvNLtI/AAAAAAAAQco/JNtmlHwXzQERmZXNBV_I2ggUbnxg7iQtwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0805%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1493" data-original-width="1600" height="596" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n6Zw7q76_5s/W7oLwQvNLtI/AAAAAAAAQco/JNtmlHwXzQERmZXNBV_I2ggUbnxg7iQtwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0805%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Other changes can be seen in the garden--Blackberry lilies showing their beautiful seedheads.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iXORW0jQb9w/W7qU7yeJclI/AAAAAAAAQe4/vEdBwREFPbspWpNl64lDo99sQVJiNDd1gCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0927%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1165" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iXORW0jQb9w/W7qU7yeJclI/AAAAAAAAQe4/vEdBwREFPbspWpNl64lDo99sQVJiNDd1gCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0927%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fall perennials are blooming, like the New England Asters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1MrQhi5tJSs/W7qW50SVaZI/AAAAAAAAQfk/Lqz3Xmee7hcgulsnJCxfKJgygJ_odcGXgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1100%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1MrQhi5tJSs/W7qW50SVaZI/AAAAAAAAQfk/Lqz3Xmee7hcgulsnJCxfKJgygJ_odcGXgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1100%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The shorter 'October Skies' Asters line one edge of the Arbor Bed.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jaQ7ZeARjd0/W7qW7ZRBioI/AAAAAAAAQfo/ODaHoB9YdUshmvyJRDlX35nVsT4yl438gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1115%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1229" data-original-width="1600" height="490" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jaQ7ZeARjd0/W7qW7ZRBioI/AAAAAAAAQfo/ODaHoB9YdUshmvyJRDlX35nVsT4yl438gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1115%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A Tatarian Aster at the back of the Butterfly Garden--I wish I could get more of these to grow!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KY7KublSy78/W7qXCVPgQsI/AAAAAAAAQfs/jsJO2fr0Zj8Nm-pVZWTvwG5z4JKYP866wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1119%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="1600" height="474" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KY7KublSy78/W7qXCVPgQsI/AAAAAAAAQfs/jsJO2fr0Zj8Nm-pVZWTvwG5z4JKYP866wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1119%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I have no trouble growing these, however--Frost or Hairy Aster, <i>Symphyotrichum pilosum</i>, is a native plant that many would consider a weed.&nbsp; But I happen to like these little white blooms, not to mention they are a valuable source of nectar for bees and other insects in the fall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bHhU8-2u84s/W7qXDi_YQkI/AAAAAAAAQfw/9IG7MgE2rkQwAOxiX5AKoEY0yU-wt8RtgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1109%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1398" data-original-width="1600" height="558" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bHhU8-2u84s/W7qXDi_YQkI/AAAAAAAAQfw/9IG7MgE2rkQwAOxiX5AKoEY0yU-wt8RtgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1109%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">In the Arbor Bed, Japanese Anemones are making an appearance.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JWu8jVpEv4w/W7qXUaL6FfI/AAAAAAAAQgE/EfQI155RFwMekbGB__rr-qX41Jk8lOSAgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1143%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1519" data-original-width="1600" height="606" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JWu8jVpEv4w/W7qXUaL6FfI/AAAAAAAAQgE/EfQI155RFwMekbGB__rr-qX41Jk8lOSAgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1143%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another Japanese Anemone--I vowed I would remember what variety both of these are,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">but naturally I've forgotten.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ODYpMYxVXI/W7qXZsfEbZI/AAAAAAAAQgI/JEcSdLJeDUQLQhTJnVgVux_ob-ICgTdywCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1160%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1422" data-original-width="1600" height="568" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ODYpMYxVXI/W7qXZsfEbZI/AAAAAAAAQgI/JEcSdLJeDUQLQhTJnVgVux_ob-ICgTdywCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1160%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I'm also happy to see the Pineapple Sage in bloom.&nbsp; So often, it blooms so late that it is hit by frost before it can even bloom, but this year it looks like I will have more time to enjoy it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7saSGce9rfM/W7qXj8sbsOI/AAAAAAAAQgM/E8nV-OyMPcke--HXRL65ZtJXTLwgQxTpQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN1138%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7saSGce9rfM/W7qXj8sbsOI/AAAAAAAAQgM/E8nV-OyMPcke--HXRL65ZtJXTLwgQxTpQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN1138%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">And finally, one of my favorite shrubs this time of year, the Beautyberry.&nbsp; I love these purple berries!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Pj6CHP2Lkc/W7qVS6EH4tI/AAAAAAAAQe8/3jGwK_MFum0xIl41yeokQlgG2dvB7hVgwCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN1024%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1357" data-original-width="1600" height="542" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Pj6CHP2Lkc/W7qVS6EH4tI/AAAAAAAAQe8/3jGwK_MFum0xIl41yeokQlgG2dvB7hVgwCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN1024%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Although I haven't been very industrious in the garden the past month and a half, I have enjoyed spending time just sitting and observing nature.&nbsp; The hummingbirds have been a constant source of joy as I watch them dancing in the air and flying from flower to flower.&nbsp; Yesterday I saw two in my garden, the latest I remember ever seeing them here, but I know that very soon they will all be on their way to warmer climes. It's a good time to enjoy the many beauties of nature before the snow flies.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-87626199246563421232018-07-15T21:26:00.000-05:002018-07-15T21:26:24.392-05:00An Explosion of Color: July GBBDI don't get to travel as much as I would like.&nbsp; Between family obligations--including who's going to take care of four dogs??--and this and that, it is hard to get away.&nbsp; So when my daughter offered to let me tag along with her to Washington, D.C. a few weeks ago, I jumped at the chance.&nbsp; My husband stayed home, so I didn't have to worry about the dogs, and not much was going on in the garden that needed my immediate attention, so it was perfect timing.<br /><br />While the garden was kind of at a lull when I left, all that changed in the few short days that I was gone.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--5yWI9renyA/W0tKazInLXI/AAAAAAAAQXk/UaEFLVEwFqAmrR56rcborymZOFNzfB9CgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0029%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--5yWI9renyA/W0tKazInLXI/AAAAAAAAQXk/UaEFLVEwFqAmrR56rcborymZOFNzfB9CgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0029%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In six days' time, the purple coneflowers had gone from a few opening blooms to a sea of pink!&nbsp; And when I say "sea," I'm not exaggerating.&nbsp; It's hard for me to get a good photo of the sidewalk garden that shows all the flowers, but maybe this one section will give you an idea.&nbsp; Even though I dug up many seedlings in the spring, there are so many that there isn't much room for anything else.&nbsp; Good thing I love coneflowers:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EfG9gOdB1_E/W0tO0g4zoqI/AAAAAAAAQXw/73UNMah7r3IlGdGZZUN_CWxHqyIuUZb5gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0209%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EfG9gOdB1_E/W0tO0g4zoqI/AAAAAAAAQXw/73UNMah7r3IlGdGZZUN_CWxHqyIuUZb5gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0209%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rSkqtPjqRu0/W0tpiC7r4rI/AAAAAAAAQX8/TgFGdAdDvQsb8u_jsCzhnyjkt2JG8UxLgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><br />Almost all the coneflowers that grow here are the native species, but 'Cheyenne Spirit' is one hybrid that has done well here and hasn't been overtaken by the natives--yet.&nbsp; 'Cheyenne Spirit' is one that will have different colored blooms on the same plant.&nbsp; I bought this one before it bloomed, hoping for yellow blooms, but as you can see, I didn't quite get what I had wished for.&nbsp; Still, I like the varied shades of coral and orange on this plant which sets it apart from all the common coneflowers here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xa2XNMe52y4/W0vg7NfXjwI/AAAAAAAAQbA/6ks7_vzd4bgHjKo5LbTTdkfvLmF0REumACEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0450%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="1600" height="328" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xa2XNMe52y4/W0vg7NfXjwI/AAAAAAAAQbA/6ks7_vzd4bgHjKo5LbTTdkfvLmF0REumACEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0450%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The other coneflowers have spread everywhere, including to the Lily Bed, which has been a riot of color for the past two weeks.&nbsp; Even though I initially named this the Lily Bed, not all my lilies are growing here--I ran out of room here long ago! Since the daylilies are the other star of the garden right now, let's take a little closer look at some of them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSkqtPjqRu0/W0tpiC7r4rI/AAAAAAAAQYI/M3tXSv-d3y4S26aGHcEgV_EUi1-yooadwCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rSkqtPjqRu0/W0tpiC7r4rI/AAAAAAAAQYI/M3tXSv-d3y4S26aGHcEgV_EUi1-yooadwCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0192.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">One of the first to bloom, 'Little Hug' is still putting out a plethora of blooms.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Yyg-0EW7as/W0tpk_E6g3I/AAAAAAAAQYA/FeDQ6QJ8AY88S-Bg65jPkDUH4ewA-TUgQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0191%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Yyg-0EW7as/W0tpk_E6g3I/AAAAAAAAQYA/FeDQ6QJ8AY88S-Bg65jPkDUH4ewA-TUgQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0191%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">'Susan Webber,' a registered cultivar named after a local gardener.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2cEKx18n-to/W0tppk-DklI/AAAAAAAAQYE/JtftwZW-38YqCzFP1O56Nk4icDu4c2KdACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0183.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2cEKx18n-to/W0tppk-DklI/AAAAAAAAQYE/JtftwZW-38YqCzFP1O56Nk4icDu4c2KdACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0183.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">'Moonlight Madness'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HVhcnc8x-v0/W0vcg4ou7xI/AAAAAAAAQZM/U0Rv_m7k1YEAjs1Z4xX5nY8kMOEdBjxUgCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0241.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HVhcnc8x-v0/W0vcg4ou7xI/AAAAAAAAQZM/U0Rv_m7k1YEAjs1Z4xX5nY8kMOEdBjxUgCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0241.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A NOID lily, given to me by a friend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-vr7BB8E8M/W0vextwfEHI/AAAAAAAAQZ8/W75z84ZN2S0d0kgjmXATNPFCdZXh8T3ZACEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0424%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1397" data-original-width="1600" height="558" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-vr7BB8E8M/W0vextwfEHI/AAAAAAAAQZ8/W75z84ZN2S0d0kgjmXATNPFCdZXh8T3ZACEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0424%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">'Andrea's Dragonfly,' a division shared with me by my friend Beckie who named it in memory of her daughter. (Not a registered daylily)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v814AJ9Snms/W0vd_jXXr6I/AAAAAAAAQZk/InjlER3ADjM2n5qQoacAG6c8qty2vBnQQCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0325%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1518" data-original-width="1600" height="606" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v814AJ9Snms/W0vd_jXXr6I/AAAAAAAAQZk/InjlER3ADjM2n5qQoacAG6c8qty2vBnQQCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0325%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another NOID lily that I call 'Nettie's Coral' after my aunt who gave me several of these years ago.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uv9SLmpk0Jc/W0vcWjWhW1I/AAAAAAAAQYs/pMcRhvwCs9YICuX3aQ_s-88ilIAO_sYSQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0218%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1307" data-original-width="1600" height="522" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uv9SLmpk0Jc/W0vcWjWhW1I/AAAAAAAAQYs/pMcRhvwCs9YICuX3aQ_s-88ilIAO_sYSQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0218%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It's probably apparent from the previous photos that I am partial to pastel lilies.&nbsp; Take me to a daylily farm, and no matter what my buying intentions are, I always gravitate to the pastels:)&nbsp; But I do have a few darker ones, including this lovely whose name has long been forgotten and which was also given to me by my friend Beckie.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HL8m16vfsPY/W0veCjPHXrI/AAAAAAAAQZo/Y0thJ-Umjq0YRxNS-GWjpMJjwZPlKLK8gCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0317%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1207" data-original-width="1600" height="482" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HL8m16vfsPY/W0veCjPHXrI/AAAAAAAAQZo/Y0thJ-Umjq0YRxNS-GWjpMJjwZPlKLK8gCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0317%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Another non-pastel is this NOID that apparently got mixed up with some 'Stellas' I bought years ago.&nbsp; I keep meaning to divide it because I really do like it much better than the Stellas anyway.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nLstWJyHdos/W0vfWgSnlVI/AAAAAAAAQaM/GvQ4BULvOEQZ46xvKvyXPRLbv-KC1_ZBQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0458%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1407" data-original-width="1600" height="562" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nLstWJyHdos/W0vfWgSnlVI/AAAAAAAAQaM/GvQ4BULvOEQZ46xvKvyXPRLbv-KC1_ZBQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0458%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Some of my "literary lilies" are also a little darker like 'Divine Comedy.'&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1CdztLUdM1Q/W0vgzW58MOI/AAAAAAAAQa4/w5kZBnTYyPcms4eA7aGvwHUYhz3UgqhzwCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0355%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1586" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1CdztLUdM1Q/W0vgzW58MOI/AAAAAAAAQa4/w5kZBnTYyPcms4eA7aGvwHUYhz3UgqhzwCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0355%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="634" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And 'Canterbury Tales.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uEHfs-exw2A/W0veiKKm09I/AAAAAAAAQZ0/sqU6fVjuyOIDIS7DuvGXJAWGnqpCTzB5QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0364%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uEHfs-exw2A/W0veiKKm09I/AAAAAAAAQZ0/sqU6fVjuyOIDIS7DuvGXJAWGnqpCTzB5QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0364%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">'Romeo is Bleeding' is a bright red edged with yellow.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFBwVDHcRNQ/W0vcmh2mHAI/AAAAAAAAQZQ/KKIZizrkJH4an7H8FKKdwSMDTKoj_D1YACEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0219%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="1600" height="544" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VFBwVDHcRNQ/W0vcmh2mHAI/AAAAAAAAQZQ/KKIZizrkJH4an7H8FKKdwSMDTKoj_D1YACEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0219%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Of course, 'Romeo' had to have a companion, so I named this no-name hybrid 'Juliet.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvYJb_QM_6w/W0vcEnf4a-I/AAAAAAAAQYo/7j4jSxX8zcQIm4AJRaP_6tV6Vx9rd2PRQCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0068%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvYJb_QM_6w/W0vcEnf4a-I/AAAAAAAAQYo/7j4jSxX8zcQIm4AJRaP_6tV6Vx9rd2PRQCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0068%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">More of my "literary lilies"--and pastels again--'Tennyson' is a prolific beauty. I can't quite decide if this is my favorite daylily....</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCZbf0gzEpM/W0vfb6Tt_MI/AAAAAAAAQac/GPQ7h7M80CUVZti_2s9RefWzVMxyHrH6QCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0474%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1430" data-original-width="1600" height="572" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JCZbf0gzEpM/W0vfb6Tt_MI/AAAAAAAAQac/GPQ7h7M80CUVZti_2s9RefWzVMxyHrH6QCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0474%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">...or if 'Mistress Prynne' is my favorite.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xFy3I2RpuHk/W0ve2NKOHxI/AAAAAAAAQaI/XU8G2XwpQpcRY_fo79sSO_YrMcK6EqjawCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0427%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1281" data-original-width="1600" height="512" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xFy3I2RpuHk/W0ve2NKOHxI/AAAAAAAAQaI/XU8G2XwpQpcRY_fo79sSO_YrMcK6EqjawCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0427%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I have many more daylilies than this, but I think you get that idea that I have become addicted to them.&nbsp; The last few years, though, I've&nbsp; also branched out a little to other types such as the Orientals, including what I call everyone's favorite, 'Stargazer.'&nbsp; I've yet to see any blooms on the Casablancas, however, one of my favorite Orientals.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b4sgzB81vjE/W0vhAkUZrAI/AAAAAAAAQa0/Zb5TLYPLp_oBm011JyRgwJi_jkw19jI2ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0430%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1234" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b4sgzB81vjE/W0vhAkUZrAI/AAAAAAAAQa0/Zb5TLYPLp_oBm011JyRgwJi_jkw19jI2ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0430%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="492" /></a></div><br />There are a few Orienpets as well, including this one whose name I've already forgotten.&nbsp; With their downward-facing blooms, they are interesting but hard to photograph.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uBcyw8MIbxQ/W0vb8YNxywI/AAAAAAAAQYo/BFklEiG2-A0xf1U1V1D0PY5SGXZLm6KggCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0134%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uBcyw8MIbxQ/W0vb8YNxywI/AAAAAAAAQYo/BFklEiG2-A0xf1U1V1D0PY5SGXZLm6KggCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0134%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />Although the coneflowers and lilies are the stars of the garden right now, there are other blooms as well.&nbsp; Grey-headed coneflowers have been blooming for several weeks in the butterfly garden.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m7JnN1N4BZ4/W0v8AZuWNQI/AAAAAAAAQbU/V-NwV0iil_AxpTfXs_s5pt4ts-IGRRcywCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m7JnN1N4BZ4/W0v8AZuWNQI/AAAAAAAAQbU/V-NwV0iil_AxpTfXs_s5pt4ts-IGRRcywCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0444.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Hostas are just beginning to bloom in the Oak Tree garden.&nbsp; All the rain we have had recently has turned my shade gardens into jungles once again.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--7Lc22M5N-w/W0vhHagp5hI/AAAAAAAAQbM/bPkSjLMr6f8mj37Z6BJUYNE4H48gyMECQCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0457%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--7Lc22M5N-w/W0vhHagp5hI/AAAAAAAAQbM/bPkSjLMr6f8mj37Z6BJUYNE4H48gyMECQCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0457%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In the Arbor Bed, the phlox are just starting to bloom.&nbsp; This is 'David' with a fuschia no-name peeking behind it to the left.&nbsp; I noticed this combo one day of whites with the pinks of the coneflowers and 'Stargazers'--another one of my happy accidents in planting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8wiDM8qnKU/W0vcYlT4jeI/AAAAAAAAQZE/6xd8Fjn8G5goL6jknN-pUFnGIhzV4K_7wCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0207%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1224" data-original-width="1600" height="488" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m8wiDM8qnKU/W0vcYlT4jeI/AAAAAAAAQZE/6xd8Fjn8G5goL6jknN-pUFnGIhzV4K_7wCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0207%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I love, love the garden this time of year, but it's not just the blooms that I enjoy; it's all the creatures that come to visit it that bring me joy as well.&nbsp; Well, not that darned Japanese beetle on the left coneflower, of course.&nbsp; But I have been thrilled that finally the butterflies have appeared.&nbsp; I was beginning to worry that their numbers were down this year, but in the last two weeks, I have had so many come to visit that my camera memory card is filled with nothing but&nbsp; butterfly photos.&nbsp; Black swallowtails, Red Admirals, and many smaller butterflies that I haven't identified are enjoying the coneflowers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2bsPfx2YIE/W0vd5lLmQWI/AAAAAAAAQZg/d4TQXTQ9lfMF0zWV9aN_ofwk_QcI-NtWgCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0275%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1378" data-original-width="1600" height="550" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W2bsPfx2YIE/W0vd5lLmQWI/AAAAAAAAQZg/d4TQXTQ9lfMF0zWV9aN_ofwk_QcI-NtWgCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0275%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The Tiger Swallowtail is one of my favorites,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">and I'm pretty sure on Friday a Giant Swallowtail made a short visit as well.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WwEOGauMXuE/W0vfem5e4DI/AAAAAAAAQaU/dLmJ2C0hxoA6uk7_gXPwU7YCjAwb1XlLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN0479%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1324" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WwEOGauMXuE/W0vfem5e4DI/AAAAAAAAQaU/dLmJ2C0hxoA6uk7_gXPwU7YCjAwb1XlLgCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN0479%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />But what makes me happiest of all is to see the Monarchs.&nbsp; I've had at least two--my husband says he saw four at once--hanging about the garden for the past two weeks.&nbsp; My milkweed plants are pretty puny, but at least I can provide some nectar for the adults with all these coneflowers!<br /><br />It's been a hot, hot summer so far, but I am enjoying the garden right now, and I hope you are enjoying your summer garden, too.<br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is brought to you once again by <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens.</a>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-10786249757512612572018-06-16T21:35:00.000-05:002018-06-16T21:35:05.711-05:00June Bloom DayI'm a little late for Bloom Day, but it's been a busy weekend.&nbsp; Besides a birthday party for two of the grandchildren, today was our annual Master Gardeners' Garden Walk.&nbsp; Since I was a volunteer at one of the gardens this morning, I was able to preview all the gardens on the walk last night.&nbsp; So many gorgeous gardens in our community, full of imagination and ideas to copy.&nbsp; Maybe I'll get around to doing a post on them--one of these days.&nbsp; I spent the morning at a friend's garden who has created a beautiful and peaceful oasis in her backyard.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lsEI_m6JxWc/WyWQnoOQw2I/AAAAAAAAQWk/ivm5wn5FRjgXCvig0XHOM0vyeYSPrEhjQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0152%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1336" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lsEI_m6JxWc/WyWQnoOQw2I/AAAAAAAAQWk/ivm5wn5FRjgXCvig0XHOM0vyeYSPrEhjQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0152%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="534" /></a></div><br />This is one of Jolene's latest additions--she calls it "the door to nowhere."&nbsp; I was so happy that we had a great turnout this morning in spite of the sweltering heat and humidity.&nbsp; Everyone was in awe of this hidden gem here in our little town.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yA1KIZrvtiM/WyO2vIySf5I/AAAAAAAAQTo/0lL7tQugOl4YpPZRb0q1F2grb_y1JlkwwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0019%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1326" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yA1KIZrvtiM/WyO2vIySf5I/AAAAAAAAQTo/0lL7tQugOl4YpPZRb0q1F2grb_y1JlkwwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0019%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="530" /></a></div><br />You won't find anything that creative in my garden, I'm afraid, but I do have some blooms.&nbsp; I'm feeling pretty happy that I finally planted all the annuals I purchased this spring, some of which had been languishing on my back porch for nearly a month!&nbsp; This is a begonia that I fell in love with called 'Appleblossom.'<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LmytoQkvZuQ/WyO23oZvQPI/AAAAAAAAQTs/GJ6gXUQlB9Yc4maYcNIoXJshE_WXdOn8ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0027%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LmytoQkvZuQ/WyO23oZvQPI/AAAAAAAAQTs/GJ6gXUQlB9Yc4maYcNIoXJshE_WXdOn8ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0027%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />'Wendy's Wish' Salvia is an annual I plant every year because the hummingbirds love it.&nbsp; This year I took a friend's advice and planted one in a container near my back porch where I can see the hummingbirds up close as they visit each bloom.&nbsp; I've noticed the bumblebees love it just as much.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HFtJzvdTTAA/WyO3B_e_EQI/AAAAAAAAQT0/RTPHj4SmlqU3O1ulpLK-XXGknobpVywhgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9953%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1347" data-original-width="1600" height="538" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HFtJzvdTTAA/WyO3B_e_EQI/AAAAAAAAQT0/RTPHj4SmlqU3O1ulpLK-XXGknobpVywhgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9953%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've discovered I really like succulents.&nbsp; This combo in an old birdbath is doing well, and just look at the bloom on the Echeveria!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0iGdfTVucjc/WyO3DXTVtYI/AAAAAAAAQT4/oxNqQ4V2U7EKkFv4CcwiGyInjPcJNz52gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9958%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1259" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0iGdfTVucjc/WyO3DXTVtYI/AAAAAAAAQT4/oxNqQ4V2U7EKkFv4CcwiGyInjPcJNz52gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9958%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A close-up of these blooms, which I think are pretty cool.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Soa9L_-PdCE/WyPvJW1C-FI/AAAAAAAAQWQ/kiga2h1Iy5o6v9jy2pjj3g6S9Okj6WYxwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Soa9L_-PdCE/WyPvJW1C-FI/AAAAAAAAQWQ/kiga2h1Iy5o6v9jy2pjj3g6S9Okj6WYxwCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4783.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Among the many annuals I planted in containers and in the garden are some I didn't plant-</div><div style="text-align: center;">-at least not this year.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ok9Na4T0XA/WyPu3gQAl3I/AAAAAAAAQWE/kmjfCM3LLlYjTPV-ZmXzXRIlXOtoo5jXQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ok9Na4T0XA/WyPu3gQAl3I/AAAAAAAAQWE/kmjfCM3LLlYjTPV-ZmXzXRIlXOtoo5jXQCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_4784.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />These are 'Prairie Sun' Rudbeckia, which are annuals here, but this year they re-seeded themselves in the roadside garden.&nbsp; I love volunteers like this!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-06hIi51lwhI/WyO3dF1-ChI/AAAAAAAAQUM/v-i_q0FD8-MWKzKMkjSYNm5NWyegIASJwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0002%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1407" data-original-width="1600" height="562" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-06hIi51lwhI/WyO3dF1-ChI/AAAAAAAAQUM/v-i_q0FD8-MWKzKMkjSYNm5NWyegIASJwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0002%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Other than the annuals, there isn't a lot blooming right now as we transition into summer.&nbsp; I say "transition" because according to the calendar, it's still spring, but the hot, sweltering weather we have had most of the time since May certainly feels like summer to me.&nbsp; In the shade garden, Lamium blooms are spreading everywhere.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5a9Kc2T1iuc/WyO3fB5bf1I/AAAAAAAAQUQ/abjHeN5eFzEdSbUZk1ZUrF056T1JPfUrwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0005%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1396" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5a9Kc2T1iuc/WyO3fB5bf1I/AAAAAAAAQUQ/abjHeN5eFzEdSbUZk1ZUrF056T1JPfUrwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0005%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="558" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Lady's Mantle, a newer addition here, is also sporting its blooms.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0sMsnBMe_ZY/WyPvYqW3CxI/AAAAAAAAQWU/MEJkQO1prAcgzAYuPhoMprIkvMZMBFX1QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0088%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1088" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0sMsnBMe_ZY/WyPvYqW3CxI/AAAAAAAAQWU/MEJkQO1prAcgzAYuPhoMprIkvMZMBFX1QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0088%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Since my last Bloom Day post, the hostas have grown by leaps and bounds in the shade garden.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UmYd5p37XAk/WyO3lWjFORI/AAAAAAAAQUY/zeE_jCHJ8p04MzJkXoaq2f8ceFqiba76wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9995%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1498" data-original-width="1600" height="598" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UmYd5p37XAk/WyO3lWjFORI/AAAAAAAAQUY/zeE_jCHJ8p04MzJkXoaq2f8ceFqiba76wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9995%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A few are sending up the beginnings of blooms, like 'Empress Wu.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_ncKY9v8gY/WyO3p2U9HOI/AAAAAAAAQUc/9lnmwULTr6AwlH2mB8mOdgmVHmlqMLO9ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9999%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K_ncKY9v8gY/WyO3p2U9HOI/AAAAAAAAQUc/9lnmwULTr6AwlH2mB8mOdgmVHmlqMLO9ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9999%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Indian Pink,<i> Spigelia marilandica,</i> is nowhere as big as the Empress hosta, but I'm happy it has survived here for several years.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VHPwa3GqzaY/WyO3sf6R2NI/AAAAAAAAQUg/UhaFH0mtvngNuXtsY0a9JfavNQEIkA5zwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9998%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1381" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VHPwa3GqzaY/WyO3sf6R2NI/AAAAAAAAQUg/UhaFH0mtvngNuXtsY0a9JfavNQEIkA5zwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9998%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="552" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The buds are just beginning to open up.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SkdkrnYo66g/WyO3yOka6JI/AAAAAAAAQUo/RvP23FGaiQEmYm83psJHUpVWufD8ltKrwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0011%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SkdkrnYo66g/WyO3yOka6JI/AAAAAAAAQUo/RvP23FGaiQEmYm83psJHUpVWufD8ltKrwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0011%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Elsewhere, a few hydrangeas are blooming, including 'Mary Nelle' above, the 'Annabelles,' and 'Ruby Slipper' oak-leaf hydrangea.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZNA9ex5cDc/WyO33NcbJaI/AAAAAAAAQUw/2-eHMvjJh14JZRTtFABCaTEAZvFm-FIfACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0017%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1286" data-original-width="1600" height="514" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZNA9ex5cDc/WyO33NcbJaI/AAAAAAAAQUw/2-eHMvjJh14JZRTtFABCaTEAZvFm-FIfACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0017%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The weather lately has been crazy--besides the heat, last weekend we had bad storms that included a tornado nearby.&nbsp; Fortunately, we had no damage from the strong winds, but we had five inches of rain.&nbsp; The rain produced some interesting-looking fungi in the lawn.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8_4aPzGNBJI/WyO4TIL-mfI/AAAAAAAAQVI/zVgGI_FgNys-ewZACUHZhi0p_ocpU4d3QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0066%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1342" data-original-width="1600" height="536" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8_4aPzGNBJI/WyO4TIL-mfI/AAAAAAAAQVI/zVgGI_FgNys-ewZACUHZhi0p_ocpU4d3QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0066%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Moving on to the Butterfly Garden, aka the Garden of Chaos, there are always some surprises--some welcome and many not so welcome.&nbsp; Not sure what these flowers are--maybe Evening Primrose?&nbsp; At any rate, I know I didn't plant them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXXoZrjgIHc/WyO4w9fbrjI/AAAAAAAAQVQ/hWkb7aOojbAIki3wmsYAyr4w5yidx7N1wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXXoZrjgIHc/WyO4w9fbrjI/AAAAAAAAQVQ/hWkb7aOojbAIki3wmsYAyr4w5yidx7N1wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0070.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I have several butterfly weeds, and this one is really doing well right now.&nbsp; I haven't seen any butterflies in awhile, but I'm hoping they find my garden soon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hm2_CsssyYs/WyO5LAYPjiI/AAAAAAAAQVY/PRFcsnHvYc4htreNyl6ex959KdtO5fZ3gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0051%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hm2_CsssyYs/WyO5LAYPjiI/AAAAAAAAQVY/PRFcsnHvYc4htreNyl6ex959KdtO5fZ3gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0051%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Lamb's Ears are shooting up their blooms in the Lily Bed.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6go0s3bBoJU/WyO5RFmz_7I/AAAAAAAAQVc/VK8T9TJs3KgijH9-11Q1mG6idkEg7SZRwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6go0s3bBoJU/WyO5RFmz_7I/AAAAAAAAQVc/VK8T9TJs3KgijH9-11Q1mG6idkEg7SZRwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0057.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />One of the more interesting blooms right now in the Arbor Bed--Common Mullein, <i>Verbascum thapsus.</i>&nbsp; Some might consider this more of a weed, but it certainly draws attention.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B8tRjlRK2Uo/WyO5TN9LRaI/AAAAAAAAQVg/XLvmMkU-cfQ2KY4nnPLWRvlaEUKOejMmACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0062%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="920" data-original-width="1600" height="368" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B8tRjlRK2Uo/WyO5TN9LRaI/AAAAAAAAQVg/XLvmMkU-cfQ2KY4nnPLWRvlaEUKOejMmACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0062%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The vegetable garden is growing slowly, but I finally picked my first snow peas this past week.&nbsp; I'm loving the new raised bed built for me by a friend.&nbsp; Lettuce and spinach will be pulled out soon to make room for some zucchini and squash.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lYV06BCmU1k/WyO3_2MFngI/AAAAAAAAQU4/4269ygsZzyAg45sPHdKQ9acaM0xk_eXFACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0035%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lYV06BCmU1k/WyO3_2MFngI/AAAAAAAAQU4/4269ygsZzyAg45sPHdKQ9acaM0xk_eXFACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0035%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This past week I visited a local lavender farm with a group of fellow gardeners, and what a treat!&nbsp; I was able to brag that I have finally succeeded in keeping one lavender plant alive for more than a year:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VdF6k5rFcgo/WyO4CKL72XI/AAAAAAAAQU8/b9T9ydp5_v8A4iaabllfB9M0ZRPAzwznwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0036%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VdF6k5rFcgo/WyO4CKL72XI/AAAAAAAAQU8/b9T9ydp5_v8A4iaabllfB9M0ZRPAzwznwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0036%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Sidewalk garden doesn't have a lot of blooms right now, but these little Monarda are doing their best till the coneflowers take over.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tn712984Zm8/WyO5nIfTZzI/AAAAAAAAQVs/TBttBbtgnyM-e27LPIiS-VHrk9BlHGPgACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN0065%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tn712984Zm8/WyO5nIfTZzI/AAAAAAAAQVs/TBttBbtgnyM-e27LPIiS-VHrk9BlHGPgACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN0065%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The first Asian lilies are blooming in the Arbor Bed.&nbsp; 'Stella D'Oro' daylilies are also blooming in many places throughout my garden, but the real show of daylilies won't begin for another week or two.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEwSVAACANY/WyO3Rl0KgdI/AAAAAAAAQUE/GcTtr6-bGGYEyD1dA6M4zkfFJz6yVAaDQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9988.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SEwSVAACANY/WyO3Rl0KgdI/AAAAAAAAQUE/GcTtr6-bGGYEyD1dA6M4zkfFJz6yVAaDQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9988.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While there aren't a lot of blooms in this transition time between spring and summer, all that is about to change--the coneflowers will be arriving soon!&nbsp; Between the coneflowers and the daylilies I am looking forward to one of my favorite times in the garden.<br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is brought to you the 15th of each month by <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of Maydreams Gardens.</a>&nbsp; Thanks, Carol, for motivating me to post at least once a month!<br /><br /><br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-2568338387151990312018-05-16T12:10:00.005-05:002018-05-16T12:10:35.981-05:00GBBD: Remembering SpringIn my last Bloom Day post, I worried that spring would never arrive.&nbsp; But not surprisingly, all I needed was a little more patience, for less than two weeks later, spring burst forth in all its grandeur.&nbsp; Suddenly, daffodils were dancing everywhere, and each day new tulips opened up their blooms.<br /><br />Now, two short weeks later, most of the tulips are just a memory.&nbsp; I know that on Bloom Day we are supposed to be sharing what is blooming <b>now</b>, but since I haven't posted for a month, please bear with me--I just have to share all these happy blooms from the past few weeks.&nbsp; I promise to keep the narrative to a minimum and let you just enjoy the sights.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIcXf_0AeOU/Wvub3Ut7cNI/AAAAAAAAQNQ/XuJhvtehXYUPF_5B3pkn88_LAH3iE_etwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yIcXf_0AeOU/Wvub3Ut7cNI/AAAAAAAAQNQ/XuJhvtehXYUPF_5B3pkn88_LAH3iE_etwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9453.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />Every spring I am eager to see what tulips emerge, both the new bulbs I planted the fall before and the old faithfuls I have had for a few years.&nbsp; Since tulips are not very long-lived and because they are a popular treat for certain varmints (more on that later), one never knows just how many or which ones will appear.&nbsp; I planted more 'Margarita' last fall because the old ones were looking puny last year and was happy to see the new plantings looking good.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WdPgJqU0_QU/WvudSQ7k1eI/AAAAAAAAQOY/gD-4SSzbxSoDfJNo4zTr0oJjaqkYpVayACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WdPgJqU0_QU/WvudSQ7k1eI/AAAAAAAAQOY/gD-4SSzbxSoDfJNo4zTr0oJjaqkYpVayACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9392.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also planted lots of orange tulips last fall, because I had very few in my garden.&nbsp; I think I might have gotten a little carried away, though, because I had so many different orange tulips that I couldn't remember which was which. This is 'Gudoshnik'--I think.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZREBJz4LgIs/WvucG7xP1iI/AAAAAAAAQNY/QF_i1A13CIEAIeUkRR6yFvyCcv7CnFtXACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1364" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZREBJz4LgIs/WvucG7xP1iI/AAAAAAAAQNY/QF_i1A13CIEAIeUkRR6yFvyCcv7CnFtXACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9532.JPG" width="544" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is 'Orange Van Eijk,' according to my planting notes from last fall.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G06ppAGicWE/WvucOXVh5LI/AAAAAAAAQNg/ts4KC5Fd8pYlh1JYr7zOXBRnhjq2cMlYACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9556%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1377" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G06ppAGicWE/WvucOXVh5LI/AAAAAAAAQNg/ts4KC5Fd8pYlh1JYr7zOXBRnhjq2cMlYACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9556%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="550" /></a></div><br />After being impressed last spring with 'Lightning Sun,' I ordered more for this year.&nbsp; One photo doesn't do these justice--they have variegated coloring in shades of orange to red, and the color varies from one bloom to another.&nbsp; As they age, the petals remind me of an Impressionist's brushstrokes. Both 'Lightning Sun' and 'Gudoshnik' are tall Darwin tulips purchased from John Scheepers and should last for several years.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R6DFWtuR0Cg/WvwiJZddTtI/AAAAAAAAQQs/S6NRJ3jYs2wQuZ-N3cDGH7hrh-Yp1MeowCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R6DFWtuR0Cg/WvwiJZddTtI/AAAAAAAAQQs/S6NRJ3jYs2wQuZ-N3cDGH7hrh-Yp1MeowCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9577.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I did plant more than orange tulips last fall, in case you were wondering.&nbsp; 'Barcelona' is a lovely rose-colored pink; I just wish I had gotten a better photo of these, minus a car in the background:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KitJmsYFr4I/WvucZ5hPr7I/AAAAAAAAQNo/F3tEP33P06kATsYjqAENm_XFkaaIsQt6wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9468%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1249" data-original-width="1600" height="498" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KitJmsYFr4I/WvucZ5hPr7I/AAAAAAAAQNo/F3tEP33P06kATsYjqAENm_XFkaaIsQt6wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9468%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Then there were the returnees: although I prefer the tall hybrid tulips, I do love these little species tulips 'Lady Jane.'&nbsp; The best part besides their longevity is that they multiply.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UB7hgRrxoRQ/WvucdmOda1I/AAAAAAAAQNs/dyB-CkRm4-AuprowJxU5A0mDoS_iNrD-ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UB7hgRrxoRQ/WvucdmOda1I/AAAAAAAAQNs/dyB-CkRm4-AuprowJxU5A0mDoS_iNrD-ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9463.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">My namesake 'Rosalie.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DhddVgXBhqE/WvwiKi35IWI/AAAAAAAAQQw/pe7Z9J1cqHsOobgB4Hg2rMiNa5uc87zqQCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN9515%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1413" data-original-width="1600" height="564" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DhddVgXBhqE/WvwiKi35IWI/AAAAAAAAQQw/pe7Z9J1cqHsOobgB4Hg2rMiNa5uc87zqQCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN9515%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A double, 'Pink Star.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vE4ep_jJAdg/WvucyWzoFrI/AAAAAAAAQN8/F84gIQRyXEgMh6IG8Is08PgXhltUEvEjgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9598%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="1600" height="544" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vE4ep_jJAdg/WvucyWzoFrI/AAAAAAAAQN8/F84gIQRyXEgMh6IG8Is08PgXhltUEvEjgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9598%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And another double, one of my long-time favorites, 'Angelique.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWzSLwCW2us/Wvuc5-fG2ZI/AAAAAAAAQOE/W8NsH88mpqcf9ArwCE2-AUuXF7oGDKI0wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vWzSLwCW2us/Wvuc5-fG2ZI/AAAAAAAAQOE/W8NsH88mpqcf9ArwCE2-AUuXF7oGDKI0wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9336.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And what has become my very favorite tulip of all, 'Akebono.'&nbsp; Another Darwin tulip, these return every year, yet just to make sure I always have some,I add a few more each fall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g69WgF6jriU/WvudATCrLrI/AAAAAAAAQOI/4hEASN3j1OArvDUjrtLxq3bQJbcGB8BzwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g69WgF6jriU/WvudATCrLrI/AAAAAAAAQOI/4hEASN3j1OArvDUjrtLxq3bQJbcGB8BzwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9390.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />There were many more returning tulips that I have simply forgotten the names of.&nbsp; I wish I could identify the ones above so I could order more this year; they really were beautiful.&nbsp; Notice I also had a healthy crop of henbit and dandelions this spring.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc5F9BFT7bk/Wvuci_8dTSI/AAAAAAAAQN0/MuAICjSlnE4nD0FvzZH9RZZGxDbp_Ff6QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9460%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1167" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wc5F9BFT7bk/Wvuci_8dTSI/AAAAAAAAQN0/MuAICjSlnE4nD0FvzZH9RZZGxDbp_Ff6QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9460%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Some type of Rembrandt tulips.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLsdOaOrLFc/WvwqWaDCDqI/AAAAAAAAQRQ/2hEVVIX74sc5EINUGJrUcPDpFOVaVdjJACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLsdOaOrLFc/WvwqWaDCDqI/AAAAAAAAQRQ/2hEVVIX74sc5EINUGJrUcPDpFOVaVdjJACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9361.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Shades of yellow</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oteVNyQKWcY/WvueBXeXv2I/AAAAAAAAQOw/EkGXREfsEG4mo7AG1teObgjh-rHKYDSFACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oteVNyQKWcY/WvueBXeXv2I/AAAAAAAAQOw/EkGXREfsEG4mo7AG1teObgjh-rHKYDSFACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9635.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Pale pink/lavender in the shade garden</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CXLqqKKoT6Y/WvueYw2LG5I/AAAAAAAAQO8/PQrgCfGPZac3PlyB2MwTY51pJBYXS6piwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9522%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CXLqqKKoT6Y/WvueYw2LG5I/AAAAAAAAQO8/PQrgCfGPZac3PlyB2MwTY51pJBYXS6piwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9522%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Orange and purple are not a color combo I would usually choose, but I'll take it here.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o_EWKJtizgA/Wvw0k_5WeeI/AAAAAAAAQRo/7vzEQMbbYzE2fWRqyhhNHVDlMt14haomACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o_EWKJtizgA/Wvw0k_5WeeI/AAAAAAAAQRo/7vzEQMbbYzE2fWRqyhhNHVDlMt14haomACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9621.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And finally, two whose names I do remember and usually the latest to bloom, 'Maureen' and 'Queen of the Night,' with some early 'Purple Sensation' alliums.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mWoYohe2tjI/Wvwqsad4R5I/AAAAAAAAQRY/ecQbX1046HgcY95jLmMz3jW-h53eZLeGwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9480%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1276" data-original-width="1600" height="510" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mWoYohe2tjI/Wvwqsad4R5I/AAAAAAAAQRY/ecQbX1046HgcY95jLmMz3jW-h53eZLeGwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9480%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Tulips are my favorite bloom of spring, no matter what color or type.&nbsp; Although most did very well this year, despite the late start and quickly rising temperatures, there were a few disappointments.&nbsp; The biggest disappointment was in my roadside garden, where I planted an additional two dozen bulbs last fall.&nbsp; Whether it was the voles that have invaded that area or another varmint or the standing water from the floods in February, only one measly tulip appeared!&nbsp; This is not the first year this has happened, so I am finally waving the white flag--this fall I am going to stick to daffodils and alliums in this area.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uJOOTlA_1w8/Wvue4JeXSKI/AAAAAAAAQPI/CdKgLjPlCJAYRGzZzvkmbgEtDPD0kdagwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9593%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1205" data-original-width="1600" height="482" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uJOOTlA_1w8/Wvue4JeXSKI/AAAAAAAAQPI/CdKgLjPlCJAYRGzZzvkmbgEtDPD0kdagwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9593%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Tulips and other bulbs weren't the only blooms this spring.&nbsp; The first week of May the flowering trees began to bloom, including the redbuds.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfDVyddUHAw/Wvue6luU-JI/AAAAAAAAQPM/_IjPxTlfbrcOXx22aTbaT5P96l2gIXjZwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9588%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1296" data-original-width="1600" height="518" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfDVyddUHAw/Wvue6luU-JI/AAAAAAAAQPM/_IjPxTlfbrcOXx22aTbaT5P96l2gIXjZwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9588%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The week before, I was sure the crabapples had been nipped by frost, but thankfully I was wrong.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iAvmUgHQiKE/WvufTdbbMsI/AAAAAAAAQPg/dZNNWHKFdaEIxqiAtGnq7TalJdN1EeLawCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9570%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="961" data-original-width="1600" height="384" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iAvmUgHQiKE/WvufTdbbMsI/AAAAAAAAQPg/dZNNWHKFdaEIxqiAtGnq7TalJdN1EeLawCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9570%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">For one glorious week, my driveway looked like my header photo, once again.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kSOZAErCkvI/WvufA_SfOwI/AAAAAAAAQPQ/oBrNpVuAmLQOjocou7M-KnYcsSWhBUhHwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9614%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kSOZAErCkvI/WvufA_SfOwI/AAAAAAAAQPQ/oBrNpVuAmLQOjocou7M-KnYcsSWhBUhHwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9614%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The old lilac has gotten huge and was full of blooms that smelled divine.&nbsp; I have two newer, smaller lilacs, including one called 'Scent and Sensibility' that also has a sweet fragrance.&nbsp; But nothing compares to the scent of this original!<br /><br />Spring is my favorite time of year, but sadly it is the shortest season here in Illinois.&nbsp; After one week of heaven, the trees dropped their blooms and leafed out, and the lilacs faded.&nbsp; Only a few fading tulips remain. Temperatures soared into the 80's and even the 90's a couple of days, and we have sped straight into summer.&nbsp; If nothing else, spring is a reminder of transient beauty and the importance of slowing down and enjoying the moment.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySDxAtrzKC8/WvufzcnM0vI/AAAAAAAAQPs/9xZyF8RB02kf6O2GF7FUlCnHhwiT9MLzQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9669%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySDxAtrzKC8/WvufzcnM0vI/AAAAAAAAQPs/9xZyF8RB02kf6O2GF7FUlCnHhwiT9MLzQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9669%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />But while I am sad to see spring fly by so quickly, the garden has gone into overdrive, providing more blooms as it transitions into summer.&nbsp; One of my favorites above, <i>Amsonia tabernaemontana</i>.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y7BUliIrys0/Wvuge9yeyRI/AAAAAAAAQQA/EqJ3wtxpa8oBSahWzhxGj9GrOR2Cs-HKQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9639%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1579" data-original-width="1600" height="630" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y7BUliIrys0/Wvuge9yeyRI/AAAAAAAAQQA/EqJ3wtxpa8oBSahWzhxGj9GrOR2Cs-HKQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9639%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Small alliums in the shade garden.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JR4LHfLrj9k/Wvugh4L8o9I/AAAAAAAAQQE/CI4mvMgAMMgKg659uTn9ejq9WPphGoyEwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9665%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JR4LHfLrj9k/Wvugh4L8o9I/AAAAAAAAQQE/CI4mvMgAMMgKg659uTn9ejq9WPphGoyEwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9665%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The taller 'Purple Sensation' are taking over one corner of the Arbor Bed!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iBmuzh8lHyo/WvuglZrej8I/AAAAAAAAQQI/o_FfCaDuzKk1Xik8RAKdAkNGkE1BhCb0ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9628%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="1600" height="498" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iBmuzh8lHyo/WvuglZrej8I/AAAAAAAAQQI/o_FfCaDuzKk1Xik8RAKdAkNGkE1BhCb0ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9628%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">My original bleeding heart is a no-show this year, but the newer 'Gold Heart' dicentra is doing well.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4RmqTF5KB0/Wvw2mgaZQdI/AAAAAAAAQR0/1BQuYxHuciINR-P4q9Ip1Ft7JloErDPWwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9718%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1192" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4RmqTF5KB0/Wvw2mgaZQdI/AAAAAAAAQR0/1BQuYxHuciINR-P4q9Ip1Ft7JloErDPWwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9718%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The tiny blue flowers of&nbsp; 'Jack Frost' Brunnera are a favorite of mine, and I have added several more of these the last two years.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nF7CF1EsbLE/Wvw2rOF99AI/AAAAAAAAQR4/RXuYSArZEFIM934RWorJgvA1346TSgR4QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9716%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1164" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nF7CF1EsbLE/Wvw2rOF99AI/AAAAAAAAQR4/RXuYSArZEFIM934RWorJgvA1346TSgR4QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9716%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It does pay to take the time and look closely around you--I almost stumbled over this Trillium one day while weeding in the shade garden.&nbsp; I am so excited to see it, as woodland plants often don't do well for me in the dry shade of this garden area.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ATKWaw3PvnQ/Wvw2u22PojI/AAAAAAAAQR8/S8LY7JshSuo-reO_ZY9-3yc4VyXAMh_JACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9733%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1123" data-original-width="1600" height="448" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ATKWaw3PvnQ/Wvw2u22PojI/AAAAAAAAQR8/S8LY7JshSuo-reO_ZY9-3yc4VyXAMh_JACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9733%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Butterfly/Pollinator garden is also coming to life.&nbsp; Camassia were the first to bloom, but I didn't take time to get a single photo.&nbsp; Now <i>Phlox pilosa,</i> or PPPP as <a href="http://www.clayandlimestone.blogspot.com/">Gail </a>calls them, are showing up here and there.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xt4GuDcOBy4/Wvw2xJ_p8gI/AAAAAAAAQSA/M_8mnrzL6QgPLisRgbei9g2gTDYExW6iQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9734%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xt4GuDcOBy4/Wvw2xJ_p8gI/AAAAAAAAQSA/M_8mnrzL6QgPLisRgbei9g2gTDYExW6iQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9734%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Golden Alexanders are also flourishing, which delights me</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;since I tried for years to get them established here.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i9JFi0-Qbec/Wvw20OpW1FI/AAAAAAAAQSE/oYxdHnhuLk0u1pBVjo6A1ICPuvPk-xFTACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9729%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1415" data-original-width="1600" height="566" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-i9JFi0-Qbec/Wvw20OpW1FI/AAAAAAAAQSE/oYxdHnhuLk0u1pBVjo6A1ICPuvPk-xFTACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9729%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />If you have stuck with me till the end of this post, I thank you.&nbsp; And while I am sorry to see spring come and go so quickly, there are daily reminders like this 'Immortality' iris that there is much more to come in the garden in the coming months.<br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is hosted on the 15th of each month by <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens.&nbsp;</a> There are sure to be many, many blooms to see this month so hop on over and join in the celebration of spring!<br /><br /><br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-13304390503819415552018-04-15T17:54:00.000-05:002018-04-15T17:54:08.969-05:00Patience is a Virtue: April GBBD"<span style="font-size: large;"><b>P</b></span><b>atience is a virtue</b>" was a favorite saying of one my favorite high school teachers.&nbsp; Mrs. G was my Home Ec teacher--this was the 60's, mind you, when girls were still expected to learn all kinds of homemaking skills.&nbsp; She repeated this phrase often as we ninth graders grew frustrated with cooking and sewing disasters, such as my friend who had to tear out a skirt zipper nine times before getting it right!&nbsp; After my many years of teaching, I suspect, however, that she repeated this mantra as much to keep her own frustrations in check as much as ours.&nbsp; I know I would have.<br /><br />I have been reminded of this saying the past month as my patience has worn thin waiting for spring to arrive.&nbsp; I know I'm not alone as the crazy weather has affected many parts of the country.&nbsp; From torrential rain to snowstorms--central Illinois has had more snow in April than any other month this winter--to constant gloomy, chilly days, it has been a depressing start to spring.&nbsp; It doesn't help that we were spoiled last year. Last year we had an early spring, and I had crocuses blooming by the end of February.&nbsp; By April, daffodils, tulips, and even some spring perennials were blooming.&nbsp; The flowering trees had already bloomed by Bloom Day as well.&nbsp; But this year?&nbsp; Well, let's just see what we can find....<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--rTXz__MiHM/WtNUixwKzeI/AAAAAAAAQK8/cVvMGYGdRA8IpQ01JFWhZDddATpcCfHsACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--rTXz__MiHM/WtNUixwKzeI/AAAAAAAAQK8/cVvMGYGdRA8IpQ01JFWhZDddATpcCfHsACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />For my March Bloom Day post all I had to show were some snowdrops and the first yellow crocus.&nbsp; By the end of March other crocuses were blooming as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8XRYLNkRo8k/WtNUlWzVoUI/AAAAAAAAQLA/CZhdQeQ6EYE9sEePoL80NkP6u3KFnwaiACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8XRYLNkRo8k/WtNUlWzVoUI/AAAAAAAAQLA/CZhdQeQ6EYE9sEePoL80NkP6u3KFnwaiACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9179.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Roco's memory garden had a variety of crocuses and other early small blooms, including <i>Puschkinia </i>and <i>Scilla</i>.&nbsp; My favorite crocus 'Pickwick,' a larger lavender and white, is just opening up at the top of this photo.&nbsp; I never did get a good photo of one of these, unfortunately.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_bCeyx-O2TQ/WtNUqQ7eS6I/AAAAAAAAQLE/JKjjBpcI1WMM1u_ZYzQUbMvy8z9vH12HwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_bCeyx-O2TQ/WtNUqQ7eS6I/AAAAAAAAQLE/JKjjBpcI1WMM1u_ZYzQUbMvy8z9vH12HwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9168.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />The crocuses are pretty well finished, but other early bloomers are not.&nbsp; The Hellebores, which began to bloom about the same time as the crocuses, are really hitting their peak right now.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YtFyzwjRBD4/WtNUw7aY91I/AAAAAAAAQLI/6AcGRn30IUYrRHz9TOZr4Plx-st-adpdgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9199%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YtFyzwjRBD4/WtNUw7aY91I/AAAAAAAAQLI/6AcGRn30IUYrRHz9TOZr4Plx-st-adpdgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9199%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />I have several different colored singles, all whose names are now forgotten.&nbsp; Cleaning up the garden has been a challenge this year because warm, sunny days have been few and far between, but I did manage to get out one chilly day and trim back the old foliage on all of these so that the blooms could really shine.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kUzSAJixiOU/WtPMr7D5ybI/AAAAAAAAQMM/VqV1yYeq2_QmP2g6Vluyt9EdRFzZi9-jgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9224%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1214" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kUzSAJixiOU/WtPMr7D5ybI/AAAAAAAAQMM/VqV1yYeq2_QmP2g6Vluyt9EdRFzZi9-jgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9224%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="484" /></a></div><br />I have two newer Hellebores as well that are doubles.&nbsp; They don't have many blooms yet, but the few they have are so lovely.&nbsp; I've forgotten the exact cultivar name, but this one is part of the 'Wedding Series.'<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OxUe2cly0to/WtNYvmHhOWI/AAAAAAAAQLg/KGrJ1-HmqkgpD5q_yFevi__HarXCUg-2ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9206%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1384" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OxUe2cly0to/WtNYvmHhOWI/AAAAAAAAQLg/KGrJ1-HmqkgpD5q_yFevi__HarXCUg-2ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9206%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="552" /></a></div><br />One of my favorite little blooms this time of year are the <i>Puschkinia</i>.&nbsp; I didn't remember they bloomed so early, but they have been popping up everywhere the last few weeks.&nbsp; I've planted more and more of these little beauties the last few years because I like them so much--aren't they sweet?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y9e7ef1DBM8/WtNY0o5wenI/AAAAAAAAQLk/qW8v4assPTIAjfZGWQk7QUfGy8s7Qmx8wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9215%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1393" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y9e7ef1DBM8/WtNY0o5wenI/AAAAAAAAQLk/qW8v4assPTIAjfZGWQk7QUfGy8s7Qmx8wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9215%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="556" /></a></div><br />I especially like them paired with the blue Scilla.&nbsp; When you plant bulbs like this, you never know whether they will bloom at the same time, so I'm happy that the timing worked out.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jhj_BkXtUJE/WtNY3qWD0oI/AAAAAAAAQLo/wXLPfoNhIj8z8syBi5mSdVVApnSd4oGoQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9214%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1358" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jhj_BkXtUJE/WtNY3qWD0oI/AAAAAAAAQLo/wXLPfoNhIj8z8syBi5mSdVVApnSd4oGoQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9214%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="542" /></a></div><br />The hyacinths are just starting to bloom.&nbsp; I have some pink and white ones as well, but the purple ones always seem to do the best for me.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9DIvVk-19w/WtNY_5PuGpI/AAAAAAAAQLs/3eIQMDBYsegF1bipEQZ9cYqyW-4c9SW1QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9212.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9DIvVk-19w/WtNY_5PuGpI/AAAAAAAAQLs/3eIQMDBYsegF1bipEQZ9cYqyW-4c9SW1QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9212.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I was beginning to wonder if I would ever have any daffodils this year, but they are just really late.&nbsp; A few warm days this past week have really encouraged the blooms to open up.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jFYBSewkwq0/WtPM3tg3nsI/AAAAAAAAQMQ/R57c9q2Zo6EJ8-rK0g-GO_twaATAsPcZACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9222%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1600" height="412" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jFYBSewkwq0/WtPM3tg3nsI/AAAAAAAAQMQ/R57c9q2Zo6EJ8-rK0g-GO_twaATAsPcZACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9222%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The bulbs I planted in part of the shade garden surrounding an oak tree are starting to fill in.&nbsp; If I remember it, I might stick some kind of markers in the empty spaces to remind myself where more could be planted next fall.&nbsp; It's not easy planting around big tree roots, though!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-faZFqhaV8mc/WtPM6ZiPKjI/AAAAAAAAQMU/kmT6pXdzlT0r962MCl2wF0qJdW4egb-iQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9217%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1558" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-faZFqhaV8mc/WtPM6ZiPKjI/AAAAAAAAQMU/kmT6pXdzlT0r962MCl2wF0qJdW4egb-iQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9217%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="622" /></a></div><br />I've been planting more and more daffodils in recent years, especially in the areas farthest from the house, to avoid deer and rabbit damage.&nbsp; Usually, I purchase large mixed bags, so I rarely know the name of each type.&nbsp; This one in the Arbor Bed, though, is 'Mount Hood'--or so I thought.&nbsp; 'Mount Hood' is a large white daffodil, so I'm not sure what is going on here, or if I'm just confused about its placement, which wouldn't be the first time.&nbsp; Notice even this vigorous bloomer doesn't appreciate the cold rain today.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mGZqDfFaPXg/WtPNpd6wrCI/AAAAAAAAQMo/QyTEMXkh9mgBmmEDWg3N0sk1jkzU3WcnQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9207%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1426" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mGZqDfFaPXg/WtPNpd6wrCI/AAAAAAAAQMo/QyTEMXkh9mgBmmEDWg3N0sk1jkzU3WcnQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9207%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="570" /></a></div><br />More daffodils in Roco's memory garden (also Sasha's and Tarzan's garden now) on one of the few sunny mornings we've had.&nbsp; This past week we had three sunny, mild days that were perfect to work in the garden, and I took advantage of them to do more clean-up of garden beds.&nbsp; Today it's back to cold and rain with a chance of that dirty word 'Snow' tonight!&nbsp; So frustrating.&nbsp; But I'll be back in the garden on the next reasonably nice day, trying to get the rest of the clean-up done.&nbsp; With any luck, I'll be finished before the tulips start to bloom!<br /><br /><br />Thanks to Carol at <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.com/">May Dreams Gardens </a>for faithfully hosting&nbsp; Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day each month.&nbsp; And thanks to Mother Nature for finally giving me a few blooms to share this late spring!Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-50964977083472307242018-03-15T19:45:00.000-05:002018-03-15T19:45:16.104-05:00March Bloom Day--Still Waiting for SpringWow, it's been a long time since I have participated in Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day--five months, to be exact.&nbsp; Don't worry, though; you didn't miss much.&nbsp; Other than some paperwhite narcissus and a lovely amaryllis, there hasn't been anything blooming around here since early November of last year.<br /><br />Winter seems to have flown by this year, though I don't think it's over yet.&nbsp;We had more snow than last year, but fortunately, not the massive snowstorms that have hit the East recently.&nbsp; Instead, we have had rain, so much rain a few weeks ago, in fact, that the small nearby river was overflowing its banks and many streets in town were impassable.&nbsp; Frankly, I would have preferred snow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AhL0-dpThxQ/Wqr_Fd2kbPI/AAAAAAAAQKM/PcqoVPrrKxQD5jauOT0Flh7ZqUVDLBnHwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9141%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1451" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AhL0-dpThxQ/Wqr_Fd2kbPI/AAAAAAAAQKM/PcqoVPrrKxQD5jauOT0Flh7ZqUVDLBnHwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9141%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="580" /></a></div><br />A year ago I had crocuses blooming on February 22, the earliest ever, but this year my garden was under water on that day.&nbsp; It wasn't until February 28 that I spied the first snowdrops blooming in the Lily Bed.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S90GFCVJJQI/Wqr_I8kO3DI/AAAAAAAAQKQ/-B0VrxJ9qr0lRtb8XwuhJQGAPdyS6_bqwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9143%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1422" data-original-width="1600" height="568" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S90GFCVJJQI/Wqr_I8kO3DI/AAAAAAAAQKQ/-B0VrxJ9qr0lRtb8XwuhJQGAPdyS6_bqwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9143%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">These tiny little blooms are always such a welcome sight,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">a promise that indeed, spring will one day be here.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AxuJSim8dQs/Wqr_MkWI3bI/AAAAAAAAQKU/IJY70zhcAKMULPacTNHFkCCJvy6gDbCjACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9140.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AxuJSim8dQs/Wqr_MkWI3bI/AAAAAAAAQKU/IJY70zhcAKMULPacTNHFkCCJvy6gDbCjACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Today was the first day that I had some time to work in the garden, and a beautiful day it was.&nbsp; I'm glad I did a little clean-up, or I would have missed this early cluster of crocus blooms.&nbsp; If snowdrops are an early harbinger of spring, the crocuses are the definite sign of the changing of the seasons to me.&nbsp; I can't wait for the purple and striped ones to appear!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dyt3qK-kvuc/Wqr_PXINVmI/AAAAAAAAQKY/DxTt4ufB3FQok_DCx8lnRXsLlLEIHsmwgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN9150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dyt3qK-kvuc/Wqr_PXINVmI/AAAAAAAAQKY/DxTt4ufB3FQok_DCx8lnRXsLlLEIHsmwgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN9150.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />That's all the blooms for now.&nbsp; But here and there in the garden are sure signs that more blooms are on the way, and that my April Bloom Day post will be much longer and more colorful!<br /><br /><br />Thanks to Carol at <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.com/">May Dreams Gardens </a>for hosting Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day every month.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-42317692904581901372018-01-07T14:08:00.003-06:002018-01-07T14:08:24.121-06:00What Will 2018 Bring?The New Year has begun with an arctic blast, bringing cold and snow to much of the United States. I've been housebound most of the past week, venturing out only to pick up a few groceries and return some library books.&nbsp; It's not that the roads are impassable; it's just that it's too darned cold to go out if I don't have to.&nbsp; I really don't mind too much--after the whirlwind of the holidays and two trips to Texas in the last month and a half, I'm happy to settle down to a slower pace.&nbsp; It's a good time to work on those New Year's resolutions and then settle down with a good book in the evenings.&nbsp; Every year I make the same resolutions like eating healthier and exercising more, but my main goal this year is to purge this house of some the clutter that has been accumulating over the past 13 years in every corner of the house.&nbsp; Once gardening season begins, I know that will occupy more of my time, so if winter is short, I may not get much done!<br /><br />The New Year represents a clean slate, a chance to start over and focus on what is really important to us.&nbsp; For some people, it means a goodbye to a bad year, in hopes that this year will be better.&nbsp; But 2017 wasn't a bad year for me, other than the political climate in this country, but I'm not going to get into politics here.&nbsp; For me, 2017 was filled with lots of family celebrations and activities from graduations to baptisms to birthdays to many, many sports events.&nbsp; Many hours and days were spent with grandchildren, filling my heart with joy.<br /><br />2017 had its ups and downs in gardening, too, and I'm hoping for an even better gardening season in 2018.&nbsp; We had a mild--and short--winter.&nbsp; By late February crocuses were blooming, the earliest in my memory, and I was already working on cleaning up the garden beds in March.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kqtQnI2UQ0/Wk-QUHIypoI/AAAAAAAAQGE/X2KBdYHxVio0lYMu1zIVCuRX7bt6yLxMwCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN6563%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1329" data-original-width="1600" height="530" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0kqtQnI2UQ0/Wk-QUHIypoI/AAAAAAAAQGE/X2KBdYHxVio0lYMu1zIVCuRX7bt6yLxMwCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN6563%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first crocus blooms appeared on Feb. 22, 2017</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gnalonqvzHE/Wk-QC5n6vUI/AAAAAAAAQGA/kv5iUvB4aqQ0Idd-eFkdvVsjBfwCgDCrQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN6929%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1543" data-original-width="1600" height="616" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gnalonqvzHE/Wk-QC5n6vUI/AAAAAAAAQGA/kv5iUvB4aqQ0Idd-eFkdvVsjBfwCgDCrQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN6929%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The early spring meant that by mid-April the tulips were in all their glory.&nbsp; Those of you who have read this blog for awhile know that spring is my favorite season of the year, and I love, love tulips.&nbsp; The problem with tulips, of course, is that they are more short-lived than other spring bulbs, so every year I try to take photos of the flower beds so that in October I can remember where I need to plant more.&nbsp; The photos do help, but I still do a lot of guesswork in planting, which means that every spring brings some surprises.&nbsp; Last year I noticed so many of the early tulips were yellow, which is strange since I'm not particularly fond of yellow.&nbsp; But this year I got carried away ordering all different types of <b>orange</b> tulips.&nbsp; I think I planted nearly 200 tulips this past fall, so I can't wait to see them all come up this spring!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6ktWo4jZk8/Wk-V4raBC5I/AAAAAAAAQGU/EbqNFqIskPMTcgC8_kKBjRDO7U3q1mdqwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN6741%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1281" data-original-width="1600" height="512" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p6ktWo4jZk8/Wk-V4raBC5I/AAAAAAAAQGU/EbqNFqIskPMTcgC8_kKBjRDO7U3q1mdqwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN6741%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />I also planted another 100+ daffodils between the pine trees, in my goal of creating a "river of daffodils" on the edge of our yard.&nbsp; I'm anxious to see these, too, and a little worried since my husband mowed this area last spring before I gave the okay.&nbsp; I have my fingers crossed that the older daffodils survived despite the early shearing.<br /><br />If I could have one wish for 2018, it would be that spring would last longer.&nbsp; Though we had an early start to the season last year, by May the weather had turned warmer, almost summer-like, and the spring bulbs didn't last long.&nbsp; There aren't many new blooms in my garden during this transition time, but I'm usually busy for several weeks planting hundreds of annuals in containers and in borders around the flower beds.&nbsp; I remember telling some friends how excited I was about a shopping trip to a favorite nursery some distance away where I spent $400 on annuals that would have cost at least $600 locally.&nbsp; They all thought I was crazy to have spent even that much--I think I am now officially the crazy plant lady of the group.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F12ruEfhJUY/WlIulVyypLI/AAAAAAAAQGk/a9qPAXMrizY8PHXT0C9Oa6hH9e739Of8QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8578%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1268" data-original-width="1600" height="506" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F12ruEfhJUY/WlIulVyypLI/AAAAAAAAQGk/a9qPAXMrizY8PHXT0C9Oa6hH9e739Of8QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8578%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I remember thinking last year that it was time to cut back on the number of containers, especially when August and September rolled around and I was spending all my time watering all of them, trying to keep them alive.&nbsp; But it's hard to cut back, especially when I find a new container that catches my eye, like this old wheelbarrow that my husband rescued from the neighbor's trash.&nbsp; I know I'll be planting this one again!&nbsp; One thing I learned last summer was that petunias don't like this wheelbarrow for some reason.&nbsp; I wasted time and money planting and re-planting Wave and Supertunias, only to have them die shortly afterwards.&nbsp; This photo was taken in the fall, when I'd replenished it with small mums and gourds, but I need to find something else besides petunias for the summer months.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SRhqTSxZv-I/WlI-d4Q26NI/AAAAAAAAQG0/tdIdQOsn1DAPqRQph-Ob0-WEU0pIZhASgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7762%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1332" data-original-width="1600" height="532" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SRhqTSxZv-I/WlI-d4Q26NI/AAAAAAAAQG0/tdIdQOsn1DAPqRQph-Ob0-WEU0pIZhASgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7762%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Summer brought my favorite flowers, daylilies...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0maErY8jkQ/WlI-jG2vr2I/AAAAAAAAQG4/7cVYYTzxqC8EPuSAQzejfmnRLczvxa7lACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7827%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1215" data-original-width="1600" height="486" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0maErY8jkQ/WlI-jG2vr2I/AAAAAAAAQG4/7cVYYTzxqC8EPuSAQzejfmnRLczvxa7lACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7827%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">...and my beloved coneflowers.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KYpTv4BS7_o/WlI-snBFGKI/AAAAAAAAQG8/zWV3BVTWWNMa2gyQ6zWOn5SU7VJskblMACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7814%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KYpTv4BS7_o/WlI-snBFGKI/AAAAAAAAQG8/zWV3BVTWWNMa2gyQ6zWOn5SU7VJskblMACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7814%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The daylilies multiplied, and the coneflowers self-seeded, so that by mid-summer every flowerbed was a mass of blooms. Will 2018 finally be the year I get ambitious enough to finally divide and purge so that my garden isn't a jungle? Well, we will have to wait and see, but don't count on it.<br /><br />By August I had the garden blahs--oh, I enjoyed whatever was blooming at the time, but I had no desire to get out and weed or do much of anything else.&nbsp; It didn't help that we went for weeks without rain. I remember dragging out hoses every day and rotating sprinklers on all the garden beds, but that just isn't the same as nourishing rain.&nbsp; I lost some plants, but by September I really didn't care, other than some native seedlings that I should have taken better care of. If it's not too much to ask, Mother Nature, I do hope you'll send us more frequent rainshowers in 2018.<br /><br />If Spring 2017 was somewhat short, Autumn made up for it.&nbsp; Warm weather continued through much of October, delaying the changing to fall color, but the leaves finally turned, providing a few weeks of beautiful color, a bit surprising considering the dry conditions.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvnm-2JKb5g/WlJSdHGNkwI/AAAAAAAAQHk/5mbFF8sKTqsDfjARWvkBCS9chIxGxpKvACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8695%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1133" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvnm-2JKb5g/WlJSdHGNkwI/AAAAAAAAQHk/5mbFF8sKTqsDfjARWvkBCS9chIxGxpKvACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8695%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front yard, late October 2017</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cldZ3vr85qg/WlJZd7eFZiI/AAAAAAAAQIM/VwluUbu0mKMErRZe2Sr2xDfNKWygeA_sgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8841%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1272" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cldZ3vr85qg/WlJZd7eFZiI/AAAAAAAAQIM/VwluUbu0mKMErRZe2Sr2xDfNKWygeA_sgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8841%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">We had a very late frost as well, the first killing frost not arriving until November 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5XyAGpL8LmA/WlJTKa74-cI/AAAAAAAAQHo/9wGRtm6uq5wWDSGwTarilpBz6Rk1BuARACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8569%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="1600" height="544" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5XyAGpL8LmA/WlJTKa74-cI/AAAAAAAAQHo/9wGRtm6uq5wWDSGwTarilpBz6Rk1BuARACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8569%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The highlight of Autumn, though, had to be the return of the butterflies.&nbsp; Through much of the summer I worried about the lack of butterflies.&nbsp; A few Swallowtails appeared now and then, but it wasn't until late August that Buckeyes and throngs of Painted Ladies appeared.&nbsp; In late September a few Monarchs made daily flights through the garden.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHAvs89tMEg/WlJTOruRYQI/AAAAAAAAQHs/3fNPFmEe1LEQzd4ww4_SLghrp35rPzlBACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8651%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1600" height="488" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHAvs89tMEg/WlJTOruRYQI/AAAAAAAAQHs/3fNPFmEe1LEQzd4ww4_SLghrp35rPzlBACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8651%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />But one day in late October I experienced something I've never seen before.&nbsp; My husband urgently called me to come out to the garden--a rare occurrence in itself--and there I saw two dozen or more Monarchs flitting about in the flowerbed, lighting in particular on the zinnias.&nbsp; I stood there for the longest time, mesmerized and in awe.&nbsp; My youngest grandson, who loves insects, happened to be there at the time and was impressed as well.&nbsp; It was an experience I won't soon forget.&nbsp; I hope this means more Monarchs in 2018!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RpkwnYg4Yx0/WlJC7BzU7rI/AAAAAAAAQHM/qqAH4x1qXs4yMiamv-fjnLtCxsgR9f_qgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8871%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RpkwnYg4Yx0/WlJC7BzU7rI/AAAAAAAAQHM/qqAH4x1qXs4yMiamv-fjnLtCxsgR9f_qgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8871%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />A few weeks of mild weather after the first frost gave me time to do some clean-up of the garden and eventually do a little outdoor Christmas decorating without freezing my fingers.&nbsp; The old wheelbarrow was cleaned out and decorated for the season with some dollar store finds and cuttings from around the yard.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wC0VV9L-Uzk/WlJC_XzJc2I/AAAAAAAAQHQ/KEluusH4rMAjryjrSDSZHl04F1mqIYUZACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8931%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1351" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wC0VV9L-Uzk/WlJC_XzJc2I/AAAAAAAAQHQ/KEluusH4rMAjryjrSDSZHl04F1mqIYUZACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8931%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="540" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The large urn in front of the porch was also decked out--</div><div style="text-align: center;">and then finished off later with a dusting of snow.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9DNpD6qNva8/WlJDBTaHeKI/AAAAAAAAQHU/z0TL39S4_J0_zrYsdDaeF1HDkxaLddn5ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9DNpD6qNva8/WlJDBTaHeKI/AAAAAAAAQHU/z0TL39S4_J0_zrYsdDaeF1HDkxaLddn5ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8933.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The first measurable snow fell on Christmas Eve, just in time to give us a white Christmas and the coneflowers their fluffy white hats.&nbsp; And now the garden and I are ready for a long winter's nap.<br /><br /><br /><b>We have no way of knowing what might come in 2018, but I wish you all . . .</b><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;">Happy Gardening in the New Year!</span></h3>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-54429832883294264882017-11-16T09:04:00.000-06:002017-11-16T09:04:30.107-06:00November GBBD: End of Another SeasonWhat a difference a few weeks can make!&nbsp; Last month I was counting butterflies and enjoying the beauties of autumn's late arrival.&nbsp; This month we are headed straight into winter.&nbsp; We haven't had any snow, other than a few stray flurries, but it's been cold--frost on the windows in the morning is now the norm.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v09V1XYwJws/WgxQVR_1ZWI/AAAAAAAAQDQ/Hz0YoaQijZMPO52BclpU7-W4o3-49p3LwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8831%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1194" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v09V1XYwJws/WgxQVR_1ZWI/AAAAAAAAQDQ/Hz0YoaQijZMPO52BclpU7-W4o3-49p3LwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8831%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="476" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">As for my garden, well, this is pretty much the scene everywhere.&nbsp; The hostas stayed green longer than usual this year, but when the first killing frost came, they seemed to say, "Ok, ok, we give up!"</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ls4oJLoMsmU/WgxUxkw8PQI/AAAAAAAAQEQ/Hfzh2IfogModXivRDryJfsbanDjb8tOOgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8857%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1514" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ls4oJLoMsmU/WgxUxkw8PQI/AAAAAAAAQEQ/Hfzh2IfogModXivRDryJfsbanDjb8tOOgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8857%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="604" /></a></div><br />As I looked around the garden a few days ago for something still blooming to show for <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day, </a>the only thing I could find were some blooms on the Yarrow.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LodM-FWVEBg/WgxVVgXOONI/AAAAAAAAQEg/DqCiEOp4PqUGtn3eBZfrtzFdf5ta03RbwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8839%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1449" data-original-width="1600" height="578" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LodM-FWVEBg/WgxVVgXOONI/AAAAAAAAQEg/DqCiEOp4PqUGtn3eBZfrtzFdf5ta03RbwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8839%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And one errant 'Stella d'Oro' bloom that was frozen in time for awhile.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPvWH7iye0o/WgxQkjDT02I/AAAAAAAAQDU/Mss7p6u6WcUweoxB_bWoHPckczQmnmv6QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qPvWH7iye0o/WgxQkjDT02I/AAAAAAAAQDU/Mss7p6u6WcUweoxB_bWoHPckczQmnmv6QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8817.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even the Knockout roses have given up for the year.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMe_vZc-i5M/WgxRdKJEkyI/AAAAAAAAQEA/_zgADAaTyb8qX5rY7HWIDPtcDYxjl5RCwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8845%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1321" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oMe_vZc-i5M/WgxRdKJEkyI/AAAAAAAAQEA/_zgADAaTyb8qX5rY7HWIDPtcDYxjl5RCwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8845%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Although the temps dipped below freezing several times in late October, it didn't seem to affect my garden.&nbsp; Then we left the first of November to visit my daughter and family in Texas for a week, celebrating my youngest granddaughter's first birthday.&nbsp; The morning after we returned, a killing frost finally signaled the end of the season for the garden.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LL8wL6Wj0B4/Wg2bHkz48kI/AAAAAAAAQEw/STLkgdB0HugMfzs1qbbcLC_vsvUZaGcgwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8841%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1272" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LL8wL6Wj0B4/Wg2bHkz48kI/AAAAAAAAQEw/STLkgdB0HugMfzs1qbbcLC_vsvUZaGcgwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8841%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">No more zinnias for butterflies to enjoy--and no more butterflies this season, for that matter.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lRv7IJoJonc/WgxRgViYJsI/AAAAAAAAQEE/bMtKwLTR6voICMtwKj1pf7jSG8GWL02RACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8844%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lRv7IJoJonc/WgxRgViYJsI/AAAAAAAAQEE/bMtKwLTR6voICMtwKj1pf7jSG8GWL02RACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8844%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp; But there is still some beauty to be found in the garden, even in winter.&nbsp; 'Wendy's Wish' Salvia (in the forefront of the photo) gives one last lovely gasp before succumbing to the inevitable.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZZSAqq2F8U/WgxU--X7egI/AAAAAAAAQEU/Ig2BdZ_ACpgZYYCWRGn9KuMnQtD9eirtACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SZZSAqq2F8U/WgxU--X7egI/AAAAAAAAQEU/Ig2BdZ_ACpgZYYCWRGn9KuMnQtD9eirtACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8863.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Behind it, the <i>Amsonia hubrichtii </i>and the berries of Beautyberry add some pops of color.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8_xL0UCG4So/WgxQtpibSyI/AAAAAAAAQDc/LWqXP7dRcFIHl1Dvew6Q3lzwDUDD95O8wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8_xL0UCG4So/WgxQtpibSyI/AAAAAAAAQDc/LWqXP7dRcFIHl1Dvew6Q3lzwDUDD95O8wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8818.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A glaze of frost gives the seedheads of coneflowers a little extra pizzazz.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zzdTEY6oCwg/WgxQyBWGqEI/AAAAAAAAQDg/eMiKtPrfUVA5SufGyXwju3hWXeIhYKSuQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8838.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zzdTEY6oCwg/WgxQyBWGqEI/AAAAAAAAQDg/eMiKtPrfUVA5SufGyXwju3hWXeIhYKSuQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8838.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">They will look even better with a topping of snow.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0cJxIuVYD5I/WgxVMTBO7OI/AAAAAAAAQEY/8NB3PkeZD0QHYzbwuqnTfagHN3AzIwEZQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8854%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1361" data-original-width="1600" height="544" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0cJxIuVYD5I/WgxVMTBO7OI/AAAAAAAAQEY/8NB3PkeZD0QHYzbwuqnTfagHN3AzIwEZQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8854%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The cold can bring some other surprises--I never saw any blooms on my milkweed, but they did produce seed pods!&nbsp; I'm so happy--maybe next year there will be more than just one or two plants for the Monarchs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Fw_AeFPHSs/WgxQ5q76JOI/AAAAAAAAQDo/ehO_LK1nRAoDxmzeR10Qdsi8kgxKKysMACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8850%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1133" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0Fw_AeFPHSs/WgxQ5q76JOI/AAAAAAAAQDo/ehO_LK1nRAoDxmzeR10Qdsi8kgxKKysMACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8850%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Anyone recognize these plants?&nbsp; They're asparagus--finally, it's time to cut them back.&nbsp; In fact, I haven't done any clean-up at all in the vegetable garden.&nbsp; I managed to get all my bulbs planted before we left for Texas, but that's about all I've accomplished in the garden this fall.&nbsp; I'm hoping for a couple of warm, sunny days to finish up the must-do fall chores before the snow flies.&nbsp; Everything else will have to wait till spring.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-96LotWs0V84/WgxQ-zqnw7I/AAAAAAAAQDs/5M54pzV5vugJogm0c3426R-z-tBeVVv2wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8836%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-96LotWs0V84/WgxQ-zqnw7I/AAAAAAAAQDs/5M54pzV5vugJogm0c3426R-z-tBeVVv2wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8836%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The blooms on the 'Limelight' hydrangea are aging well.&nbsp; They will hang on through winter; the branches of this shrub are a favorite of the birds since the suet feeder is nearby.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwLdiviB8MU/WgxROuOzoWI/AAAAAAAAQDw/_r8YpAVlTZAj1Op_Z2q_UO_POv715agRACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IwLdiviB8MU/WgxROuOzoWI/AAAAAAAAQDw/_r8YpAVlTZAj1Op_Z2q_UO_POv715agRACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8830.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The trees were slow to change color this year, and once they did, they didn't last long.&nbsp; It took weeks for the maple in our front yard to fully turn gold/orange.&nbsp; Luckily, we arrived home from Texas just in time to see it in all its glory.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ch07ci9pu8k/WgxRQ4Hl_bI/AAAAAAAAQD0/wglNt1feroE5HEfYCZmESZTRZSXn6ek3QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ch07ci9pu8k/WgxRQ4Hl_bI/AAAAAAAAQD0/wglNt1feroE5HEfYCZmESZTRZSXn6ek3QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8823.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Now, a week later, half the leaves have fallen.&nbsp; With any luck, a few windy days will blow these all away into the fields . . . if not, it looks like a good job for the grandkids:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn-IC-n0xwg/WgxRSz-TtUI/AAAAAAAAQD4/NYZ5uHf0D84-eGRKlHWKDs9L43dp5PDiwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8827%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1349" data-original-width="1600" height="538" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nn-IC-n0xwg/WgxRSz-TtUI/AAAAAAAAQD4/NYZ5uHf0D84-eGRKlHWKDs9L43dp5PDiwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8827%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Although I am sorry to see the season end, I'm not really sad. I'm ready for a break from garden chores, time to enjoy the holidays and re-charge for a couple of months. And time to dream and plan for next year's garden, which I'm sure will be the best ever!<br /><br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is held the 15th of every month.&nbsp; Thanks to <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams </a>Gardens for hosting this so faithfully and keeping me motivated to keep a monthly record of what is blooming in my garden.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-25825475828291916722017-10-15T17:02:00.002-05:002017-10-15T17:02:49.264-05:00GBBD: October Bloom Day<b><span style="font-size: large;">A</span>utumn.&nbsp; </b>Next to spring, my favorite time of year.&nbsp; Typically, the cooler temperatures are a welcome relief from a long, hot summer, the air feels crisp rather than oppressively humid, and the green of the garden is replaced with golden hues.&nbsp; Autumn arrived late this year, no matter what the calendar said, as temperatures in the 80's and even 90's remained until nearly the end of September.&nbsp; When fall finally came, what I most appreciated, however, was the rain--after months of near-drought, we have finally had some significant rainfall the past few weeks.&nbsp; My poor tired and thirsty plants have been gratefully soaking it all up.&nbsp; What little time I've spent in the garden the last two months was spent dragging hoses around to keep everything alive, but as we all know, it's just not the same as a nice, gentle rainshower.<br /><br />In fact, on this <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">October Bloom Day,</a> it is raining once again, so I may have to do with some photos I've taken the past week instead.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrsKSeslx8I/WeNuAxT-29I/AAAAAAAAQBg/flIYBLHLEN4YjF6VHvgi2gpDqgohv5U2gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrsKSeslx8I/WeNuAxT-29I/AAAAAAAAQBg/flIYBLHLEN4YjF6VHvgi2gpDqgohv5U2gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8509.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Most of my usual fall bloomers have already faded away.&nbsp; 'October Skies' asters were in full bloom by the end of September and now are just a memory.&nbsp; The same with the Goldenrod and Turtleheads.&nbsp; In many ways my fall garden has been a disappointment.&nbsp; The most puzzling is that none of my New England Asters bloomed.&nbsp; My butterfly garden has been full of these every other fall, to the point that I thought I should rip some of them out.&nbsp; But this year the only asters to bloom in this area were Frost Asters, also known as Hairy Asters, which are more of a weedy native.&nbsp; I have no idea what happened to the New Englands unless it was too dry for them.&nbsp; This small area I call my Butterfly Garden is filled with mostly natives, and I must admit I usually forget to water it during dry periods.&nbsp; Perhaps it's time to re-do this whole area.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RQmKZna67U/WeNwUSwuYXI/AAAAAAAAQCU/hUL_5I5ZTGQdy_-RReSAMAo0Y9cAPD83QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8558%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4RQmKZna67U/WeNwUSwuYXI/AAAAAAAAQCU/hUL_5I5ZTGQdy_-RReSAMAo0Y9cAPD83QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8558%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Other disappointments this fall included no-show cosmos and the zinnias.&nbsp; The zinnias did bloom and eventually they grew to their usual height, but the blooms were much smaller than usual.&nbsp; I planted the same variety of seeds that I have for several years, so that can't be the reason.&nbsp; I'm thinking the dry conditions may have affected them, too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SpTVWzsjQpo/WeNwXtGzdjI/AAAAAAAAQCY/mb7Ly_OXGvchFkeIG3nmWtDIWRN1Jm5jgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8564%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1518" data-original-width="1600" height="606" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SpTVWzsjQpo/WeNwXtGzdjI/AAAAAAAAQCY/mb7Ly_OXGvchFkeIG3nmWtDIWRN1Jm5jgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8564%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The pollinators still enjoyed the blooms, even if they were smaller than usual, fortunately.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzZ2EL0Z1jc/WeNuNbIjzWI/AAAAAAAAQBk/jJMzg4u9vnoYA6LFgE27mgobkwmHqNhcgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8571%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzZ2EL0Z1jc/WeNuNbIjzWI/AAAAAAAAQBk/jJMzg4u9vnoYA6LFgE27mgobkwmHqNhcgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8571%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Even if there aren't many blooms in my garden right now, there are other signs of fall. The <i>Amsonia hubrichtii</i> is just beginning to turn to the golden hue it acquires late in the season.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wMUhbQCTLTM/WeNwsd55JvI/AAAAAAAAQCo/9cab4U77foI3S51Iw21GkVKjMnDIaFqVwCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN8517.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wMUhbQCTLTM/WeNwsd55JvI/AAAAAAAAQCo/9cab4U77foI3S51Iw21GkVKjMnDIaFqVwCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN8517.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Beautyberry next to it is full of berries right now.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tsg69g2nGhA/WeNwi4i82TI/AAAAAAAAQCc/XHLyQh_DuC0rk45fmJRrwRCiMictDEdbwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8672%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1345" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tsg69g2nGhA/WeNwi4i82TI/AAAAAAAAQCc/XHLyQh_DuC0rk45fmJRrwRCiMictDEdbwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8672%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="538" /></a></div><br />So is the 'Cardinal Candy' Viburnum.&nbsp; I've never noticed many birds flocking to this shrub, but I'll have to watch more closely later in the season.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sSpFuCif7gs/WeNwtuB9EdI/AAAAAAAAQCk/9KfrUTOWifERzOI3aJX6v2eTQ5AnNs1XwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8503%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1212" data-original-width="1600" height="484" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sSpFuCif7gs/WeNwtuB9EdI/AAAAAAAAQCk/9KfrUTOWifERzOI3aJX6v2eTQ5AnNs1XwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8503%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One of my favorite "berries" are those of the Blackberry Lily.&nbsp; It took me years to get one or two plants established in my garden, but now they have self-seeded and form a border in front of the Lily Bed.&nbsp; I think I like their seedheads better than their blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wm8uZPyJmQU/WeNuch7OMMI/AAAAAAAAQBs/SMnd1-AaFPkXivDPAKyYRJu5IooBUILbACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8582%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Wm8uZPyJmQU/WeNuch7OMMI/AAAAAAAAQBs/SMnd1-AaFPkXivDPAKyYRJu5IooBUILbACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8582%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Fall color has been slow to arrive in our area; perhaps it has been fooled by the warm weather we've had--yesterday was another 85 degree day!&nbsp; I've noticed only a few leaves changing, and I don't expect the intense colors of some falls because of how dry it has been all summer. The big maple in our front yard that usually has the most vibrant color has begun to change a little.&nbsp; I took this photo a week ago, and you'll notice the color changes start at the top of the tree.&nbsp; Slowly, the transformation will work its way down, and in a couple of weeks, the whole tree should be a blaze of orange.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eTaHLn-NJSI/WeNxE3hEppI/AAAAAAAAQCs/Mdyr_DsYk_I1K2EqsiEPISdrlzVFzwKFACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eTaHLn-NJSI/WeNxE3hEppI/AAAAAAAAQCs/Mdyr_DsYk_I1K2EqsiEPISdrlzVFzwKFACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8565.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The garden is really winding down, and there isn't much in the way of new blooms.&nbsp; About the only new blooms I have are the Japanese Anemones.&nbsp; This pink one--name forgotten--looks a bit tattered, and the white ones didn't grow as tall as usual this year--again probably because of the dry conditions.&nbsp; But they are a welcome addition to the garden, just the same.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OmVB2frubq4/WeNuhfBrcrI/AAAAAAAAQBw/C406x3mBrGs6wnzJGSifK4H2ikfDAHsQQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8588%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OmVB2frubq4/WeNuhfBrcrI/AAAAAAAAQBw/C406x3mBrGs6wnzJGSifK4H2ikfDAHsQQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8588%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One plant that looks better than ever is the 'Senorita Rosalita' Cleome.&nbsp; Ever since I started planting it directly in the ground instead of in a pot, it has been much happier.&nbsp; The Knockout roses just peeking it out in the left of the photo have also put out a fresh flush of blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qTdkLPM7Jfc/WeNvLRnzIUI/AAAAAAAAQCE/PpFpW7g7boU34yBtgAJCWYvNzQwK6Ip_gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qTdkLPM7Jfc/WeNvLRnzIUI/AAAAAAAAQCE/PpFpW7g7boU34yBtgAJCWYvNzQwK6Ip_gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The only other new blooms this month are a few fall annuals I've planted.&nbsp;Most of my containers are looking pretty sad right now, especially the petunias, but I don't get too carried away re-planting fall combos.&nbsp; Fall can be such a short season here in Illinois, so it's not worth the time or money to create new containers.&nbsp; But, of course, I have to have a few mums!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wWfSEDaxY2c/WeNuwwLFBJI/AAAAAAAAQB4/vuZwDsqf_ZcU4pQOw1-cF-Iyn3gSimerACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8576%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1275" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wWfSEDaxY2c/WeNuwwLFBJI/AAAAAAAAQB4/vuZwDsqf_ZcU4pQOw1-cF-Iyn3gSimerACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8576%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="508" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>One container I did re-do somewhat with the addition of some smaller mums and some mini-pumpkins was this one by the old oak tree.&nbsp; This is a new "container" this year:&nbsp; this spring my husband noticed this old, broken wheelbarrow that my neighbor had set out for trash pick-up.&nbsp; He thought I might want it for a planter, which of course I did!&nbsp; There was even a little horse manure left in the bottom (my neighbor has horses), which I mixed up with the soil.&nbsp; The funny thing about this, though, is that I planted quite a few Wave petunias, thinking they would look good draping over the sides.&nbsp; But a few weeks after planting, they all died.&nbsp; I thought my neglect in watering them had killed them, so I bought a few more petunias--now on clearance--and replanted.&nbsp; But they all died, too!&nbsp; &nbsp;Everything else--the 'Diamond Frost' Euphorbia, Gomphrena, and 'Victoria Blue' Salvias--did just fine, even with some neglect.&nbsp; I have no idea why the petunias don't like this wheelbarrow, but I'm making a note to myself not to plant them in this next year.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xBSFKtGmwuo/WeNuoQwPQSI/AAAAAAAAQB0/gnkN9lZXFWcawgBb1y3OdOnK_nvb6K6xwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8591%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1222" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xBSFKtGmwuo/WeNuoQwPQSI/AAAAAAAAQB0/gnkN9lZXFWcawgBb1y3OdOnK_nvb6K6xwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8591%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="488" /></a></div><br />Fall means lots of chores in the garden before winter sets in, and I've been spending much more time outside the past few weeks, in between rain showers, than I have in a couple of months.&nbsp; The big project ahead is pretty obvious from the picture.&nbsp; I have tried to cut back on my bulb-planting the past few years, but I got a little carried away.&nbsp; When my bulb orders came in, I realized I had ordered over 500 bulbs!&nbsp; Not sure what I was thinking--well, yes, I do--I was enticed by all those pretty photos on the bulb company websites:)&nbsp; I just hope I get them all in the ground before the snow flies!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ek9MYb5cmD8/WeNu7iMOaPI/AAAAAAAAQCA/TY3ZteeLkcMQ-dEltw8lGneFC3Ml72nSQCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN8651%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1600" height="488" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ek9MYb5cmD8/WeNu7iMOaPI/AAAAAAAAQCA/TY3ZteeLkcMQ-dEltw8lGneFC3Ml72nSQCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN8651%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The best part of my fall garden, however, really doesn't have much to do with flowers or foliage, other than indirectly.&nbsp; On Friday the 13th, my husband, Mr. I-Don't-Garden, came in from mowing and said I really needed to come out to the garden.&nbsp; There, to my astonishment, was a swarm of Monarch butterflies.&nbsp; It was difficult to count them all as they floated from flower to flower, especially to the zinnias, but I think there must have been at least two dozen.&nbsp; I've never seen so many Monarchs at one time!&nbsp; It was truly a magical, almost spiritual experience, and I found myself repeating over and over "This is amazing!"<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Oml8hMe7Wo/WeNuRJdj-6I/AAAAAAAAQBo/W4KPoeH8A98p6YTHjwk4Ru1xGrG6slq5wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8569%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="1600" height="544" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Oml8hMe7Wo/WeNuRJdj-6I/AAAAAAAAQBo/W4KPoeH8A98p6YTHjwk4Ru1xGrG6slq5wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8569%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This had to be the highlight of my fall garden.&nbsp; So even though most blooms are fading away and plants are getting ready for their winter's sleep, there is still something to delight in the garden.<br /><br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is hosted the 15th of every month by author and garden fairy expert Carol of <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">May Dreams Gardens.</a>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-91023194833324031662017-08-15T08:11:00.000-05:002017-08-15T08:11:00.424-05:00GBBD: Mid-August DoldrumsIt's time for another <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day</a>, but I must confess I haven't been in the garden much this past month. &nbsp;I wish I could say it's because I have been off traveling the world or doing something equally as fun, but no, I have been busy with mundane things like cleaning carpets and other household chores &nbsp;I've also been chauffeuring grandkids around to their sports practices, because, well, that's what Grandmas do. &nbsp;But I've also been pretty lazy--by late July, I'm tired of constantly pulling weeds and deadheading and would much rather just sit back and enjoy the garden and think about changes to make next year. &nbsp;So let's stroll around the garden and see what is blooming--I might find something that surprises me as well as you.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHeX-qLGxpY/WZJPTZMndMI/AAAAAAAAP-w/OGtpbOZpSJYATVOAuoxCKx5b_KFZPkC9ACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8057%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1384" data-original-width="1600" height="552" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tHeX-qLGxpY/WZJPTZMndMI/AAAAAAAAP-w/OGtpbOZpSJYATVOAuoxCKx5b_KFZPkC9ACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8057%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The daylilies of June and July are pretty much done blooming for the year, but there are two later lilies in full bloom now, including 'Autumn Minaret' above.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/---ukWn-lJ1c/WZJPWt1O_9I/AAAAAAAAP-0/LxrD7g3k-k0Q0925VTDgXH0F4Drz7iAkgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8053%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1286" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/---ukWn-lJ1c/WZJPWt1O_9I/AAAAAAAAP-0/LxrD7g3k-k0Q0925VTDgXH0F4Drz7iAkgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8053%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="514" /></a></div><br />'Challenger,' an heirloom lily, is the other one. &nbsp;These are both tall daylilies, which are nice because they draw the eye upward, away from the dying foliage of the rest of the daylilies.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4rwPvGjcO2M/WZJQMxHwCsI/AAAAAAAAP_E/tDj8PVsCfs44ersG79UfoQje4TlYoiOhgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8168%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1343" data-original-width="1600" height="536" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4rwPvGjcO2M/WZJQMxHwCsI/AAAAAAAAP_E/tDj8PVsCfs44ersG79UfoQje4TlYoiOhgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8168%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The coneflowers are still blooming, though many are looking pretty tattered by now. &nbsp;I cut back some of the ones that look especially bad, but I leave most of them up for my pretty visitors above. &nbsp;The goldfinches love the seedheads on coneflowers and are busy feeding on them all through the day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqh9DZTgbQY/WZJQaYZT23I/AAAAAAAAP_I/h1REu54ZK88tYWdvDTbiy2y3lFJSucotgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mqh9DZTgbQY/WZJQaYZT23I/AAAAAAAAP_I/h1REu54ZK88tYWdvDTbiy2y3lFJSucotgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8023.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While I have the native Echinacea purpurea throughout all my flowerbeds, I do have two hybrids, both 'Cheyenne Spirit.' &nbsp;This is one hybrid that has done well for me, and the cool thing about this plant is that it can have different colored blooms on the same plant. &nbsp;The one above had orange blooms when I bought it, but you can see it also has some pink on the same plant. &nbsp;The other 'Cheyenne Spirit' I have has yellow blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6D3l99EhGA/WZJQcuvHVJI/AAAAAAAAP_M/wfYVy7Y9OGw1gof5Bo1X8q-RlRlBzncxgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8041%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1316" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K6D3l99EhGA/WZJQcuvHVJI/AAAAAAAAP_M/wfYVy7Y9OGw1gof5Bo1X8q-RlRlBzncxgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8041%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="526" /></a></div><br />The other plant that is still going strong is my 'Vanilla Strawberry' Hydrangea. &nbsp;I made my husband take this photo of me just to show how large it has grown in just a few years. &nbsp;I'm 5'8", or I was before age started taking its toll, so this shrub is at least 6 feet tall. &nbsp;The photo was taken a couple of weeks ago, and now the blooms have turned a darker pink with tinges of brown, but it's still lovely.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PIQOOoLW5yc/WZJTEAMMWYI/AAAAAAAAP_Y/8lNMpmLRQFoP9I1nGsJgJ8R99DZdLr2OwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PIQOOoLW5yc/WZJTEAMMWYI/AAAAAAAAP_Y/8lNMpmLRQFoP9I1nGsJgJ8R99DZdLr2OwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8036.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The 'Limelight' Hydrangea, however, is just beginning to bloom</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;and keeps soaring ever higher each year.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S_4k2YX9Q4Q/WZJPaeLz9KI/AAAAAAAAP-4/7al1wQo0kjA8NrNqajCycFCapUm483dNwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8059%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S_4k2YX9Q4Q/WZJPaeLz9KI/AAAAAAAAP-4/7al1wQo0kjA8NrNqajCycFCapUm483dNwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8059%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The phlox have a second flush of blooms. &nbsp;The white one is 'David,' but I'm not so sure about the pink--I think this might be a volunteer, since I also have some pink ones in my shade garden that I know I never planted.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYjPkTWX8T4/WZJUGM5nrJI/AAAAAAAAP_o/q2445ssRdDoBEnVGRLluM7sExLc4erD0wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8091%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1427" data-original-width="1600" height="570" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYjPkTWX8T4/WZJUGM5nrJI/AAAAAAAAP_o/q2445ssRdDoBEnVGRLluM7sExLc4erD0wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8091%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The 'Radsunny' Knockout rose also is beginning a second flush of blooms. &nbsp;It must have heard me telling a friend that I thought I might dig it out next year and plant something else. &nbsp;We'll see--I have two, and unless the second one starts over-achieving, it may be destined for the compost pile.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oeTNgMOn0Uc/WZJToLWapRI/AAAAAAAAP_g/qMu4nocTtRYps7ikpB28YfwDUbgDjGcQACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8068%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oeTNgMOn0Uc/WZJToLWapRI/AAAAAAAAP_g/qMu4nocTtRYps7ikpB28YfwDUbgDjGcQACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8068%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Containers are still looking good, for the most part, though some of my petunias are getting rather leggy. &nbsp;I had to share this container on the back porch, though--these caladium leaves are huge! &nbsp;They are at least 10" across and 12" inches long. &nbsp;I received these bulbs last year from a fellow volunteer at the County Nursing Home who passed away unexpectedly this winter. &nbsp;I hope they make it through many more winters as a reminder of his friendship and generosity.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TkuhnM1Z2RY/WZJUi3QYxZI/AAAAAAAAP_0/7vKZQuM4tGwfNwlpFZ7hbkwOzxJ7RaNhQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8152%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1479" data-original-width="1600" height="590" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TkuhnM1Z2RY/WZJUi3QYxZI/AAAAAAAAP_0/7vKZQuM4tGwfNwlpFZ7hbkwOzxJ7RaNhQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8152%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Okay, so let's move on to some new blooms or ones I haven't shown in previous Bloom Day posts. &nbsp;'Wendy's Wish' Salvia is so hard to capture on camera, but it's a hummingbird favorite, just like its kin, 'Black and Blue.' &nbsp;Next year I plan to plant one near the front porch where I can see the hummingbirds in action from my seat on the porch swing. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBgkWh7BgGw/WZJURl3HpDI/AAAAAAAAP_s/YZYetu4ljwMs5E3Xq1Ou3eaXbx3jmmTCQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8087%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1314" data-original-width="1600" height="524" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KBgkWh7BgGw/WZJURl3HpDI/AAAAAAAAP_s/YZYetu4ljwMs5E3Xq1Ou3eaXbx3jmmTCQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8087%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It's been so dry here for the last few weeks--I don't remember the last time we had a good rainshower--that about the only garden work I've had time for is watering. &nbsp;Lantana, though, is one tough annual that seems to thrive in the heat and drought.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IByn8rTIIVs/WZJUVO5pT2I/AAAAAAAAP_w/ZSc8Tp8aCsArx6e6-zeRL9iaoPtmew68wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8085%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1543" data-original-width="1600" height="616" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IByn8rTIIVs/WZJUVO5pT2I/AAAAAAAAP_w/ZSc8Tp8aCsArx6e6-zeRL9iaoPtmew68wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8085%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Volunteer Cleome are just beginning to bloom. &nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vd34KuLZ95U/WZJUqouDVRI/AAAAAAAAP_4/vTlatow7cbca7AHE7_y0OXy39oGvPNUnACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8142%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1383" data-original-width="1600" height="552" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vd34KuLZ95U/WZJUqouDVRI/AAAAAAAAP_4/vTlatow7cbca7AHE7_y0OXy39oGvPNUnACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8142%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A new perennial in my garden this year is Calamintha. &nbsp; &nbsp;After seeing this at the Olbrich Botanical Garden in Madison, Wisconsin last year where it was swarmed by bees, I knew I had to add it to my garden.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NKZLxrMpT8/WZJU1WrUNVI/AAAAAAAAP_8/deLGmm2zu8QaFlsY7oSb-wfaVHVklh3AgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8160%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1344" data-original-width="1600" height="536" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NKZLxrMpT8/WZJU1WrUNVI/AAAAAAAAP_8/deLGmm2zu8QaFlsY7oSb-wfaVHVklh3AgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8160%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I don't usually think to include my hostas or their blooms, but this is a new hosta I planted at the end of last season that I really like. &nbsp;Not only does it have pretty blooms, but I love the color and and edging on these leaves. &nbsp;And 'June Fever,' unlike some of the other hostas right now, doesn't have a single brown leaf.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yqgsmO1nJXY/WZJPcs2SghI/AAAAAAAAP-8/lwhiCCXVB1ICGJzgbVxZbTxD0e2GIhYLACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8062%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1355" data-original-width="1600" height="542" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yqgsmO1nJXY/WZJPcs2SghI/AAAAAAAAP-8/lwhiCCXVB1ICGJzgbVxZbTxD0e2GIhYLACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8062%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />No August Bloom Day post would be complete without my favorite late-summer annual, the 'Zowie Yellow Flame' zinnias. &nbsp;They started blooming a couple of weeks ago on rather short stems, but as the days have gone by, they have gotten taller and filled with blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kk337umXdek/WZJTsQT5jPI/AAAAAAAAP_k/n3DDAuJm6FEMPMKPrFbLDTqiWcVnCAzZACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kk337umXdek/WZJTsQT5jPI/AAAAAAAAP_k/n3DDAuJm6FEMPMKPrFbLDTqiWcVnCAzZACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8072.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />August has never been my favorite month. &nbsp;It's usually miserably hot, and I still think of this month as the end of summer and having to go back to school, even though I no longer have that deadline. &nbsp;The garden is often looking a bit worn-out as well. &nbsp;But one aspect of August I do love is that there seem to be more critters visiting my garden than earlier in the summer. &nbsp;The hummingbirds are in a frenzy of activity right now, and there are more and more bees buzzing about.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KI6-TauQ6oU/WZJU-r8WIeI/AAAAAAAAQAA/PNBZWETTEWsGN5qy17x-BjAcb99uVkYKwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8124%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1235" data-original-width="1600" height="492" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KI6-TauQ6oU/WZJU-r8WIeI/AAAAAAAAQAA/PNBZWETTEWsGN5qy17x-BjAcb99uVkYKwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8124%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />After seeing few butterflies this summer, I am finally seeing many more of different types. &nbsp;Sunday I spotted the first Buckeye of the season on the Nepeta.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw4VOdUqKn8/WZJVBRJtjXI/AAAAAAAAQAE/Gsi2HDkVL7M778Ljl2mi-fSFxV8gLOaOwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8122%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1435" data-original-width="1600" height="572" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw4VOdUqKn8/WZJVBRJtjXI/AAAAAAAAQAE/Gsi2HDkVL7M778Ljl2mi-fSFxV8gLOaOwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8122%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The first Black Swallowtail in some time also appeared on Sunday.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QrpmT_i46YM/WZJVF8yLSSI/AAAAAAAAQAI/ZqdCphib_gMq6hoe21HRbIFE9abYh3NgQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8135%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QrpmT_i46YM/WZJVF8yLSSI/AAAAAAAAQAI/ZqdCphib_gMq6hoe21HRbIFE9abYh3NgQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8135%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And finally, there are so many Painted Ladies. &nbsp;This lady fluttered about, but seemed to enjoy the tall Liatris most of all.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52PfxGs9CYk/WZJVJdnFBiI/AAAAAAAAQAM/RW6dZ2PstXEHxZBjNNyXHDVyDqpI2jfGwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN8129%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1427" data-original-width="1600" height="570" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-52PfxGs9CYk/WZJVJdnFBiI/AAAAAAAAQAM/RW6dZ2PstXEHxZBjNNyXHDVyDqpI2jfGwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN8129%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even the 'Zahara' zinnias were sampled. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Seeing all the butterflies and other winged visitors enjoying the garden this time of year makes me happy. &nbsp;And while I may not be working much in the garden, I am enjoying just standing back and enjoying some of the fruits of my labor. &nbsp;Garden chores can wait till September!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It seems as though I haven't had much time/motivation for blogging the past several months, so I especially want to thank our hostess <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens </a>for continuing to host Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day each month and giving me the nudge to get busy and record what's blooming in my garden every month.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-65759509641393781642017-07-16T09:40:00.002-05:002017-07-16T09:40:53.141-05:00July GBBD: Mid-Summer PerfectionMost gardeners are never satisfied. &nbsp;They always see some plant in their garden that should be pruned back or even removed, or they want to do a complete makeover of all or part of their garden. &nbsp;I'm no exception, but if there is one time of year when I sit back and say, "Wow, I love my garden!" then it is now. &nbsp;Right now I can look at my garden without thinking I need to add something here or there or focusing on the weeds; instead I am just enjoying it. &nbsp;Daylilies and coneflowers are at their peak, and the garden is a riot of clashing, but gorgeous color right now. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSrsQ2uTDo8/WWoddq1rrvI/AAAAAAAAP8o/TBAQ2QaG0DQ60DL5SmdKNENx2yLN3pXrQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSrsQ2uTDo8/WWoddq1rrvI/AAAAAAAAP8o/TBAQ2QaG0DQ60DL5SmdKNENx2yLN3pXrQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7694.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />When it comes to daylilies, I throw out any color scheme and plant according to height and wherever I can find an empty spot of soil to plant "just one more." &nbsp;I don't even remember planting these yellow lilies, nor do I remember where they came from, so it's just a happy accident that the hot pink phlox in the back provide some contrasting color.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FRgnI5pFm7s/WWqbFvYB4BI/AAAAAAAAP9M/K1vra9wIHPsiIcbSLBVZ18wMdGvcV2kvwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7539%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1564" data-original-width="1600" height="624" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FRgnI5pFm7s/WWqbFvYB4BI/AAAAAAAAP9M/K1vra9wIHPsiIcbSLBVZ18wMdGvcV2kvwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7539%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I do remember the names for many of my daylilies, however, especially what I call my "literary lilies," plants I purchased solely because of their names, not their appearance. &nbsp;'Tennyson' is one of those who also happens to be beautiful.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IaL0Gs-mVuI/WWtlSUjkP8I/AAAAAAAAP9w/961VTUglyycz8bK538Hli8FNe0MF7YaKgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7678%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1390" data-original-width="1600" height="556" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IaL0Gs-mVuI/WWtlSUjkP8I/AAAAAAAAP9w/961VTUglyycz8bK538Hli8FNe0MF7YaKgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7678%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">'Divine Comedy' is another.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pfsp8SYTbPY/WWobFaM_6cI/AAAAAAAAP8Q/dbpFWBe8LmkqXKSGsqxx1sZbeItmxCcLwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7856%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pfsp8SYTbPY/WWobFaM_6cI/AAAAAAAAP8Q/dbpFWBe8LmkqXKSGsqxx1sZbeItmxCcLwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7856%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And there is my personal favorite, 'Mistress Prynne,' who is just starting to bloom.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ggm9_hNc2Hc/WWqcvCCsDaI/AAAAAAAAP9Q/km-jZgTSloot542t0A6EitTHBTK_MWU2wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ggm9_hNc2Hc/WWqcvCCsDaI/AAAAAAAAP9Q/km-jZgTSloot542t0A6EitTHBTK_MWU2wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7707.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />There are several others with literary names that I won't take time to show you today, including 'Romeo Lies Bleeding,' a red lily with a yellow throat and edging. &nbsp;I searched and searched for a Juliet to go with him, but had no luck. &nbsp;So when I found this one-of-a-kind hybrid at a local daylily farm, I bought her and named her Juliet myself. &nbsp;You won't find her registered anywhere; she only grows in my garden! &nbsp;The daylily growers hydbridize many lilies and then decide which ones they want to propagate. &nbsp;"Juliet" didn't pass the test, so that is why she is one of a kind, but I think they made a mistake--she is a fair beauty and frankly, surpasses 'Romeo' in size and number of flowers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-28hMz-mUScU/WWqczGcyEtI/AAAAAAAAP9U/-jGcMsRAUfMZhC6JMxOD_bZAU8s3FwbSACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-28hMz-mUScU/WWqczGcyEtI/AAAAAAAAP9U/-jGcMsRAUfMZhC6JMxOD_bZAU8s3FwbSACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7722.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />'Yellow Pinwheel' doesn't have any literary connections, but I couldn't resist this tall, large beauty. &nbsp;It's supposed to be a later lily, which is why I purchased it, but it's early this year. &nbsp;So many plants in my garden this year seem a little off schedule.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ll9M4JFTZSM/WWtj3GKUCKI/AAAAAAAAP9k/vV2HJbuQ7503MMvCY7h_nUg_a_y-wmEggCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7701%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ll9M4JFTZSM/WWtj3GKUCKI/AAAAAAAAP9k/vV2HJbuQ7503MMvCY7h_nUg_a_y-wmEggCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7701%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />There are also so many NOIDs in my garden, some because I simply have forgotten their names and some because they were passalongs. &nbsp;Above is one of the lilies given to me by my aunt, so I simply call them "Nettie's Rubies."<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6-1oE-e8lo/WWobAMb4mEI/AAAAAAAAP8M/p-n3ti26ipUlYkwzzT3v6uXHX5piplGHACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6-1oE-e8lo/WWobAMb4mEI/AAAAAAAAP8M/p-n3ti26ipUlYkwzzT3v6uXHX5piplGHACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7860.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is a passalong from friend Beckie, who can't remember its name. &nbsp;I usually gravitate toward pastel colors in lilies, but this dark bloomer has really grown on me--its throat positively glows in the sunlight.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gNEwlpW6kOA/WWtj-80Z4FI/AAAAAAAAP9o/dsThotD75YU0lqy4urqfPXcMFUg2ciK7gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7720%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1358" data-original-width="1600" height="542" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gNEwlpW6kOA/WWtj-80Z4FI/AAAAAAAAP9o/dsThotD75YU0lqy4urqfPXcMFUg2ciK7gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7720%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another no-name; I think it also was a one-time hybrid from the daylily farm.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sBL45z7amWY/WWtlKrSPBkI/AAAAAAAAP9s/sDqkLqPOe-0fF-1wdeoBZfTsGKFgI4JFACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7813%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1340" data-original-width="1600" height="536" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sBL45z7amWY/WWtlKrSPBkI/AAAAAAAAP9s/sDqkLqPOe-0fF-1wdeoBZfTsGKFgI4JFACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7813%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another one-time hybrid I planted several years ago that I named "Prairie Sunrise." &nbsp;My friend Beckie and I have purchased several of these hybrids over the years, partly because they're a bargain, and partly because it's fun to name them ourselves, knowing we have something unique in our gardens.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3FDRwUAlYPM/WWtl4D4S5vI/AAAAAAAAP90/5T7TBptKkkYIItgmaD41WxvPjF7pVRsXQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3FDRwUAlYPM/WWtl4D4S5vI/AAAAAAAAP90/5T7TBptKkkYIItgmaD41WxvPjF7pVRsXQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7735.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I won't take time to show all my daylilies here, or this post would be much too long, but I have to share this one. &nbsp;This beauty just appeared this year--I swear I have never seen it before, and I'm 99% positive I didn't plant it. &nbsp;I'm thinking it might be a volunteer that is the result of cross-pollination between two nearby lilies. &nbsp;I suppose I'll never know, but it's a welcome addition to the garden!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BsUYKKF0wsg/WWtmU_GabSI/AAAAAAAAP94/qsCg5BjLco0oYNob5X_BVB1rZrxqj7ObwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7804.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BsUYKKF0wsg/WWtmU_GabSI/AAAAAAAAP94/qsCg5BjLco0oYNob5X_BVB1rZrxqj7ObwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7804.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Besides the daylilies <i>Hemerocallis</i>, &nbsp;a few Orienpets are also blooming. &nbsp;This is supposed to be 'Black Beauty,' but I'm not so sure.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVRLRn30iyA/WWobyA9mvtI/AAAAAAAAP8U/msEhAIoReYoqGLhi61QFY7mgjiTczKKqQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7858%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1244" data-original-width="1600" height="496" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVRLRn30iyA/WWobyA9mvtI/AAAAAAAAP8U/msEhAIoReYoqGLhi61QFY7mgjiTczKKqQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7858%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Now <i><b>this </b></i>is the color 'Black Beauty' is supposed to be, I believe. &nbsp;Perhaps a case of mislabeled bulbs or my faulty memory--it really doesn't matter, I enjoy them both.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uuwpDuzmTMM/WWoaSQMWmbI/AAAAAAAAP8I/4RGAy9mb5KwmLQWFYpZ_aIUH_Ox9G2LqACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uuwpDuzmTMM/WWoaSQMWmbI/AAAAAAAAP8I/4RGAy9mb5KwmLQWFYpZ_aIUH_Ox9G2LqACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7852.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Orientals are also beginning to bloom including 'Salmon Surprise,' which is having to fight for room among the spreading coneflowers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8EIo1pVz5gc/WWofzJVBvtI/AAAAAAAAP9A/MBmwLGmWDzUpj5mY7F5PSAEHUZT3YinuwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7817%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8EIo1pVz5gc/WWofzJVBvtI/AAAAAAAAP9A/MBmwLGmWDzUpj5mY7F5PSAEHUZT3YinuwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7817%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Lilies aren't the only blooms in my garden right now, however. &nbsp;Blackberry Lily, <i>Iris domestica</i>, took awhile to get established in my garden, but now it is spreading, which makes me happy.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z5N6LrmBt3s/WWoYsmuAkdI/AAAAAAAAP8A/JtAE8I0qvJAySuE9DOsL3sPziwS5Xfv1gCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN7806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z5N6LrmBt3s/WWoYsmuAkdI/AAAAAAAAP8A/JtAE8I0qvJAySuE9DOsL3sPziwS5Xfv1gCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN7806.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Phlox, including the white 'David' and an unknown pink, provide a lovely backdrop for shorter blooms in the Arbor Bed.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zMm_FAD7n0/WWodPgDjfGI/AAAAAAAAP8k/u-OKSy7h5l0Du-kU-kumTQ-kkLA7u0yWACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7688%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1329" data-original-width="1600" height="530" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0zMm_FAD7n0/WWodPgDjfGI/AAAAAAAAP8k/u-OKSy7h5l0Du-kU-kumTQ-kkLA7u0yWACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7688%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Hydrangeas are just starting to bloom as well. &nbsp;This is a new cultivar given to me by a friend who is with <a href="https://www.baileynurseries.com/">Bailey Nurseries,</a> called 'Bloomstruck.' &nbsp;It's supposed to be an improved version of 'Endless Summer,' &nbsp;producing more blooms, but what has struck me so far this year is that the blooms really are blue! &nbsp;In my alkaline soil, "blue" hydrangeas always turn pink. &nbsp;I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this stays blue.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mv3XngK-B7k/WWob3tJmILI/AAAAAAAAP8Y/UsyaAAg_wPYqnPyJv80DUnh00BJevHEtgCEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN7855%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1325" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mv3XngK-B7k/WWob3tJmILI/AAAAAAAAP8Y/UsyaAAg_wPYqnPyJv80DUnh00BJevHEtgCEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN7855%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="528" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another new bloom in my garden--the first time I've been successful with<i> Crocosmia. &nbsp;</i>I think this is 'Lucifer,' but I'm not sure.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-K0hGvSzKA/WWtnUEPdkbI/AAAAAAAAP98/HfxETBLjohYCXzhznP7nAX9QSSSpHanFwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a-K0hGvSzKA/WWtnUEPdkbI/AAAAAAAAP98/HfxETBLjohYCXzhznP7nAX9QSSSpHanFwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7724.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">In the butterfly garden, the native gray-headed coneflower <i>Ratibida pinnata</i> rises above butterfly weed and other natives.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdVxZd9-dy4/WWoemoTN5bI/AAAAAAAAP8s/iPY3BfJacjATtg91cya1BN4fmg3973l8wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdVxZd9-dy4/WWoemoTN5bI/AAAAAAAAP8s/iPY3BfJacjATtg91cya1BN4fmg3973l8wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7641.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And, of course, no summer Bloom Day post would be complete without showing off my beloved purple coneflowers, <i>Echinacea purpurea.</i> &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hTa9OtVgXSw/WWofXqJGCkI/AAAAAAAAP80/6fTvV59qjX4JcmujXHt_C9eDYUPHzuesQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7814%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hTa9OtVgXSw/WWofXqJGCkI/AAAAAAAAP80/6fTvV59qjX4JcmujXHt_C9eDYUPHzuesQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7814%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">While originally planted in the Sidewalk Garden in the previous photo and in the Roadside Garden, they have spread to most other flowerbeds as well, including the Arbor Bed above. &nbsp;I know many of you have commented that you have no luck in growing these, and while I'd like to take credit for my success with them, the fact is, they simply like Illinois prairie soil. &nbsp;And yes, I know this area is reaching jungle proportions--the result of my habit of plopping new plants in any bare inch of soil I can find😊</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TZtzUyLfXrM/WWofogOCxSI/AAAAAAAAP88/Qt5OHyz5NlQQrxgk25o8JreADIKoNfUsgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7827%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1215" data-original-width="1600" height="486" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TZtzUyLfXrM/WWofogOCxSI/AAAAAAAAP88/Qt5OHyz5NlQQrxgk25o8JreADIKoNfUsgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7827%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Occasionally, I dig up volunteer seedlings and share them others, but I have a hard time thinning these out, because the bees and butterflies love them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kDVvsHFm1ok/WWt3qKRDxfI/AAAAAAAAP-I/6n1obEodF2s1z-N3J9bn7p0upiAEeZTVQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7832%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1140" data-original-width="1600" height="456" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kDVvsHFm1ok/WWt3qKRDxfI/AAAAAAAAP-I/6n1obEodF2s1z-N3J9bn7p0upiAEeZTVQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7832%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sadly, I haven't seen many butterflies this summer other than the Red Admirals.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Unpy1y3O1Y/WWofhqSi2wI/AAAAAAAAP84/1EPi-sGOUxs2ORSKLZuFeO715A_w1TAdACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7822%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1283" data-original-width="1600" height="512" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Unpy1y3O1Y/WWofhqSi2wI/AAAAAAAAP84/1EPi-sGOUxs2ORSKLZuFeO715A_w1TAdACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7822%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />But look what else has been enjoying the coneflowers! &nbsp;You may have to enlarge the photo to see him, but this little hummingbird has been sampling them the last few days--I've never seen a hummingbird in the coneflowers before.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pqMjOJMieHI/WWob59biS6I/AAAAAAAAP8c/QiRsOzD1Xb0uMDw_hcVPXW08UqvcIclyACEwYBhgL/s1600/DSCN7867%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1353" data-original-width="1600" height="540" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pqMjOJMieHI/WWob59biS6I/AAAAAAAAP8c/QiRsOzD1Xb0uMDw_hcVPXW08UqvcIclyACEwYBhgL/s640/DSCN7867%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Coneflowers are usually a butterfly magnet, and my patience finally paid off yesterday when the first Monarch since spring arrived. &nbsp;I certainly hope to see more of these as the summer continues.<br /><br />There is so much more going on in my garden right now that I haven't included here, but if you're in the neighborhood, stop by! &nbsp;I can't think of a better time in my garden than mid-July.<br /><br /><br />As always, I'm a day late to the party known as Garden Blogger's Bloom Day, but I have a feeling this party is going to go on for awhile. &nbsp;Thanks, as always, to our hostess <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens.</a>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-33262164345883616762017-06-16T08:14:00.001-05:002017-06-17T06:08:54.425-05:00June GBBD: Almost SummerIf I had written this blog post last night, it would have been another one of my whiny, grumpy posts. &nbsp;It's been in the 90's here this past week, and I don't do well in heat--I turn into a complete grouch when sweat starts running down my face. &nbsp;As if that weren't bad enough, it's been bone dry without a drop of rain for two weeks or more. &nbsp;About all I've gotten done outside lately is drag hoses around to water and then water some more. <br /><br />That is, until last night--<b><span style="font-size: large;">it rained!! </span></b>&nbsp;I don't know how much rainfall we received since I discovered my rain gauge is cracked. &nbsp;But whether it was 1/2 inch or an inch, my garden--and this gardener--is so much happier. &nbsp;It's still unbearably hot, but I'm so thankful for rain I'm not going to complain today.<br /><br />So, let's take a look around the garden and see what is blooming on this<a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/"> Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day </a>in June.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukws7ocAQrs/WUKOAi-rcYI/AAAAAAAAP48/qGUpCCpkK3wV7Icd_oA8uIIeyE2u1INiQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukws7ocAQrs/WUKOAi-rcYI/AAAAAAAAP48/qGUpCCpkK3wV7Icd_oA8uIIeyE2u1INiQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7431.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>People may turn up their noses at the ubiquitous 'Stella d'Oro' that seems to be the staple of every commercial planting. &nbsp;But when they bloom this prolifically every June, I just don't have the heart to tear them out.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6JmHEFS43g/WUKOSzAPtSI/AAAAAAAAP5Q/K56VxUjWmvIqH5yTjP_gO1EQm9Z73CsowCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7416%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1484" data-original-width="1600" height="592" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o6JmHEFS43g/WUKOSzAPtSI/AAAAAAAAP5Q/K56VxUjWmvIqH5yTjP_gO1EQm9Z73CsowCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7416%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And who knew the bees like them?? &nbsp;Actually, the bees much prefer the 'Walker's Low' <i>Nepeta</i> next to the Stellas, but this bee seemed to find something to his liking in the lilies.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MNgt2ctySU/WUKOCYwZ1PI/AAAAAAAAP5A/5Xe9WqNooNM-dx2YYrqyVSh6ITBYiLHEACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7434%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1468" data-original-width="1600" height="586" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MNgt2ctySU/WUKOCYwZ1PI/AAAAAAAAP5A/5Xe9WqNooNM-dx2YYrqyVSh6ITBYiLHEACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7434%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another plant one of my gardening friends considers a weed rather than a flower is Yarrow. &nbsp;This is 'Appleblossom,' and the blooms are actually much pinker than this photo shows. &nbsp;Yarrow is one of those plants that will spread, but it's easy to pull out wherever you don't want it, and I happen to like it, especially since it's such a tough plant that doesn't mind the dry spell we've had.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qY1Pqqsb5M8/WUKQGKWpr_I/AAAAAAAAP5U/QFY_0i-w9L45qCuIC1IKESVLN28UnDhxwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qY1Pqqsb5M8/WUKQGKWpr_I/AAAAAAAAP5U/QFY_0i-w9L45qCuIC1IKESVLN28UnDhxwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7410.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />While we're talking about plants that not everyone likes, the Chicory is blooming. &nbsp;It's another one of those weedy wildflowers that I happen to like, especially when it is blooming along the roadsides. &nbsp;For me, it's hard not to like these pretty blue blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c6qbitEXYuU/WUKRUTdZ-NI/AAAAAAAAP5c/CI8IiqtQOD001Md0lJ48UDeZNEiRwgA4wCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7404%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1475" data-original-width="1600" height="590" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c6qbitEXYuU/WUKRUTdZ-NI/AAAAAAAAP5c/CI8IiqtQOD001Md0lJ48UDeZNEiRwgA4wCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7404%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">In the butterfly garden I have a new addition that I'm sure I didn't plant--Evening Primrose, perhaps??</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9urUEH1vI2Y/WUKTfpHsh9I/AAAAAAAAP6o/5p4d0kzzVQourusdhwWzj1Vg57Sk8zeoACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9urUEH1vI2Y/WUKTfpHsh9I/AAAAAAAAP6o/5p4d0kzzVQourusdhwWzj1Vg57Sk8zeoACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7399.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another volunteer in the Arbor Bed--<i>Nicotania</i>. &nbsp;I haven't planted any of these for five or six years, yet every year they keep coming back.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K7YlVO1XKIE/WUKSJtusqQI/AAAAAAAAP58/haW1jnlMwbM391rW5OCT1jmJ0Ev8U-hKACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7406%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K7YlVO1XKIE/WUKSJtusqQI/AAAAAAAAP58/haW1jnlMwbM391rW5OCT1jmJ0Ev8U-hKACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7406%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Back to the butterfly garden, the Butterfly Weed is just beginning to open up. &nbsp;You can barely make out the blooms behind them of <i>Phlox Pilosa</i>, which have been blooming for more than a month.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rOwl2aGgpnw/WUKRYCoXROI/AAAAAAAAP5g/9-B3goN1jJozkfvcxSVp3KWO9BUtVW57gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7367%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rOwl2aGgpnw/WUKRYCoXROI/AAAAAAAAP5g/9-B3goN1jJozkfvcxSVp3KWO9BUtVW57gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7367%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The native/wildflower I am most excited about right now is the Indian Pinks, <i>Spigelia Marilandica. </i>&nbsp;I planted these three or four years ago, and they are finally spreading out--a bit. &nbsp;Although these are considered natives in Illinois, they are not found very often in natural settings, especially in central and northern Illinois.<br /><br /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ud2R-bfPUSk/WUKOF1tVyFI/AAAAAAAAP5E/vScNiJNf6zwL8jw4mQ-nLWa7vif_s6VyACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7433.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ud2R-bfPUSk/WUKOF1tVyFI/AAAAAAAAP5E/vScNiJNf6zwL8jw4mQ-nLWa7vif_s6VyACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7433.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Elsewhere in the garden, a couple of Asiatic lilies are blooming. &nbsp;Both of these are NOIDS, probably passalongs from a friend.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwoZLehdiP0/WUKRDSRAnDI/AAAAAAAAP5Y/2epqUHIaJNAKkqQ7Jmkp_Ti7drHdh9e5QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7338.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwoZLehdiP0/WUKRDSRAnDI/AAAAAAAAP5Y/2epqUHIaJNAKkqQ7Jmkp_Ti7drHdh9e5QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7338.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I much prefer this brighter red one, but it's rather hidden away under taller plants at the back of the Arbor bed. &nbsp;Maybe someday I'll get around to moving it to where it can really be seen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCaP32Dj1Ig/WUKRmntGLQI/AAAAAAAAP5k/IvHxdo9ZxpwraRl1bYTL0oYn9mbe3ipBwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCaP32Dj1Ig/WUKRmntGLQI/AAAAAAAAP5k/IvHxdo9ZxpwraRl1bYTL0oYn9mbe3ipBwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7326.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The last two weeks have been poppy time. &nbsp;I don't have as many as usual this year--I plant them in late winter, scattering them over the snow, so they tend to pop up in some strange places. &nbsp;But we didn't have any late snow this year, so I have a feeling many of the seeds just blew away.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjzTVgq9Txc/WUKRprIFY8I/AAAAAAAAP5o/1S8lKBIfzAw5wjV22geQVM7kaX3XW396QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qjzTVgq9Txc/WUKRprIFY8I/AAAAAAAAP5o/1S8lKBIfzAw5wjV22geQVM7kaX3XW396QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7332.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I don't grow many roses, but 'Zephirin Drouhin' is doing well climbing the arbor trellis, though the heat and drought have taken their toll on her, too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OArOXwr6RE4/WUKR2wKIkaI/AAAAAAAAP5s/HW2V0FbQmwM26uQOJhHbXOt-bUHM80tAACLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7356%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1211" data-original-width="1600" height="484" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OArOXwr6RE4/WUKR2wKIkaI/AAAAAAAAP5s/HW2V0FbQmwM26uQOJhHbXOt-bUHM80tAACLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7356%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Only a couple hydrangeas are blooming so far, including the 'Annabelles.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hxkOMn_b3qI/WUKR52ti7hI/AAAAAAAAP5w/MlshYwb35oIiXBtqQD-7T0jBE96JY47NQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7360%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hxkOMn_b3qI/WUKR52ti7hI/AAAAAAAAP5w/MlshYwb35oIiXBtqQD-7T0jBE96JY47NQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7360%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've planted two different hydrangeas at the back of the shade garden in the last few years that have really grown.&nbsp;One is a 'Mary Nelle,' a unique variation of 'Annabelle,' but I have no memory of what the other one is!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_d2QrYzYGSQ/WUKSYSFlO0I/AAAAAAAAP6E/4DV9Pn6zl6gDKN1MFkSzH1r93MCLRLrmwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7363%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1252" data-original-width="1600" height="500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_d2QrYzYGSQ/WUKSYSFlO0I/AAAAAAAAP6E/4DV9Pn6zl6gDKN1MFkSzH1r93MCLRLrmwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7363%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another mystery at the front of the shade garden are these little purple blooms. &nbsp;They seem to be coming from an <i>Epimedeum,</i> but I'm not sure--anyone recognize this plant?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BlcNuXh_P3M/WUKR9yG_j5I/AAAAAAAAP50/xPF1a1BsNsgh9XdWFc0srCN6G8zu4i3XgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BlcNuXh_P3M/WUKR9yG_j5I/AAAAAAAAP50/xPF1a1BsNsgh9XdWFc0srCN6G8zu4i3XgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7362.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The rest of the shade garden is growing to jungle proportions as usual.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VLIAJzN5_s/WUKSA0CCoqI/AAAAAAAAP54/cznoX2vn8LoujKT7Y7w3R3XO9jTewUqdgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7359%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="1600" height="540" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VLIAJzN5_s/WUKSA0CCoqI/AAAAAAAAP54/cznoX2vn8LoujKT7Y7w3R3XO9jTewUqdgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7359%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nearby, the miniature Japanese garden is almost ready for visitors.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rmrhoN1alEU/WUKSU5TbJYI/AAAAAAAAP6A/ufe5BJOsZfYXYSlEL_rlhM9Y14CGQ48pgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7385%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1198" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rmrhoN1alEU/WUKSU5TbJYI/AAAAAAAAP6A/ufe5BJOsZfYXYSlEL_rlhM9Y14CGQ48pgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7385%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Spirea blooming along the front of the house.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-ogYTgiE9k/WUKSnRuISxI/AAAAAAAAP6I/kk7UR4VeQxQnGNaY2YjoT3UB7JQwrNumwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u-ogYTgiE9k/WUKSnRuISxI/AAAAAAAAP6I/kk7UR4VeQxQnGNaY2YjoT3UB7JQwrNumwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7390.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In the sidewalk garden one lavender plant is blooming, which makes me happy since I cut them back to the ground in the spring, not knowing at the time you should cut them back only by a third or so.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AqzLjCScPPY/WUKSrk05G2I/AAAAAAAAP6M/ode6yUtwuKo79gAanlfsnhtd76-pd9kSgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7396.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AqzLjCScPPY/WUKSrk05G2I/AAAAAAAAP6M/ode6yUtwuKo79gAanlfsnhtd76-pd9kSgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7396.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Some of the lamb's ears in the Lily Bed are sending up their quirky blooming stalks.</div><br />I took a break yesterday in the middle of writing this post, because I wanted to finish planting while the ground was soft from the overnight rain. &nbsp;I can finally announce I have <b>ALL </b>my new plants planted! &nbsp;(Well, except for three new shrubs . . . but they're going to wait till it's a little cooler.) &nbsp;My back porch and patio no longer look like I'm holding my own plant sale:) &nbsp;Some of those plants, I'm embarrassed to admit, had been sitting there since April 24, my first plant shopping trip. <br /><br />I did lose a few annuals by holding them so long, some to poor watering by the gardener, and some to toads. &nbsp;We have quite a family of toads here, much to the delight of the grandsons and Frank (the pug) and Teddy (the mini Yorkie). &nbsp;While I'm happy to have them, they like to burrow into the moist soil of the pots. &nbsp;Many times I've been startled while planting containers when a toad jumped out of one of the annuals! &nbsp;It's not a problem, except when small pots have been sitting too long, as mine have, &nbsp;and one of the fatter toads has burrowed in and out of the same pot, displacing some of the soil. Now that I've planted all those small containers, I'm not sure where the toads will sleep--I'd better not dig too deeply in my large pots:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGnqHnRVfBM/WUKTDi-KVAI/AAAAAAAAP6c/j8xMgNxaXescxkdIQosqjmcYNl9qIL9TgCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7352%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1389" data-original-width="1600" height="554" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGnqHnRVfBM/WUKTDi-KVAI/AAAAAAAAP6c/j8xMgNxaXescxkdIQosqjmcYNl9qIL9TgCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7352%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I think I went a little crazy this year buying annuals, especially petunias. &nbsp;I won't show you all my annuals--this post is getting too long already--but I do want to share a couple of my favorite petunias. &nbsp;This is 'Johnny Flame'; it really caught my eye when I saw it at our local nursery, and I quickly snapped up the last three, with no idea where to plant them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6sVvM1HBkw4/WUKOIXWp5AI/AAAAAAAAP5I/wq3ngkDajPUMAyCOtaf1VdwfhvB8dMnvQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7418.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6sVvM1HBkw4/WUKOIXWp5AI/AAAAAAAAP5I/wq3ngkDajPUMAyCOtaf1VdwfhvB8dMnvQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7418.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Two favorites I buy every year--'Royal Velvet,' a dark purple planted in the porch planter here as well as several other containers, and the contrasting 'Bordeaux.'<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hdEun_EuMZA/WUKTORR6NwI/AAAAAAAAP6g/CsBbn-X8LPYcfuVlIklhgxVKMlixfoD4QCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7387.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hdEun_EuMZA/WUKTORR6NwI/AAAAAAAAP6g/CsBbn-X8LPYcfuVlIklhgxVKMlixfoD4QCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7387.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">One of my favorites I plant every year--Supertunia 'Raspberry Blast.'</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HNZY-u2OmVI/WUKTTfvc75I/AAAAAAAAP6k/ReEgAGsECM8YPGVb3BJxzGqU88TP2et8gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7412%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HNZY-u2OmVI/WUKTTfvc75I/AAAAAAAAP6k/ReEgAGsECM8YPGVb3BJxzGqU88TP2et8gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7412%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Two new varieties I just couldn't resist this year--'Latte' and 'Black Mambo' (I think I have those names correct.) &nbsp;I'm not usually a fan of black petunias, but I like this combo.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZspvXO_XXSw/WUKS4WdiptI/AAAAAAAAP6Q/T1DpW6oxfVoq08F4lsVQQoYspwrKD12VQCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7398%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1572" data-original-width="1600" height="628" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZspvXO_XXSw/WUKS4WdiptI/AAAAAAAAP6Q/T1DpW6oxfVoq08F4lsVQQoYspwrKD12VQCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7398%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Although it seems as if I have a lot of blooms, most of my garden is still green right now. &nbsp;The summer show of color won't begin for a couple more weeks. &nbsp;<i>Echinacea </i>'Cheyenne Spirit' is one of the early arrivals for the summer riot of color.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dU9h1CBb1mE/WUKS64JN0vI/AAAAAAAAP6U/RLGhKgclgCQtkDlCL48FWDalbH03_r98gCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7397%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1447" data-original-width="1600" height="578" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dU9h1CBb1mE/WUKS64JN0vI/AAAAAAAAP6U/RLGhKgclgCQtkDlCL48FWDalbH03_r98gCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7397%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />'Moonlit Masquerade' is always the first daylily--other than the Stellas--to appear. &nbsp;It will soon be joined by many more.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BDUnmkGPxQ/WUKS8DdVg8I/AAAAAAAAP6Y/JvKW3P9fZTwOvOTM1pFaCcKvUlznw1QSwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSCN7394%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1233" data-original-width="1600" height="492" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BDUnmkGPxQ/WUKS8DdVg8I/AAAAAAAAP6Y/JvKW3P9fZTwOvOTM1pFaCcKvUlznw1QSwCLcBGAs/s640/DSCN7394%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And, of course, my summer garden wouldn't be complete without purple coneflowers. &nbsp;A few are blooming, but the mass of blooms is still a week or two away. &nbsp;I'm hoping they will bring back the butterflies that seem to have disappeared.<br /><br />This weekend is the annual Garden Walk of our local Master Gardeners group, and I'll be very busy, especially since the nursing home garden, where I volunteer, is featured on the walk this year. &nbsp;But I'll catch up with everyone's Bloom Day posts in a few days. <br /><br />Thanks, as always, to Carol of <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">May Dreams Gardens </a>for hosting another Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-26251155089952681322017-05-16T14:01:00.001-05:002017-05-16T14:01:56.818-05:00May GBBD: Planting Frenzy MonthThere ought to be a law--no one can graduate in the month of May. &nbsp;Or have a birthday. Or get married. &nbsp;Or all the countless celebrations that have kept me out of the garden this month. &nbsp;The weather is finally cooperating so that I can plant some of the many, many annuals I have purchased. &nbsp;But I keep getting interrupted by things like graduations, confirmations, and t-ball games. &nbsp;And to top it all off, my Texas grandbabies will be here for a visit in a few days, and I really, really need to clean my house.<br /><br />Not that I'm complaining. &nbsp;I've enjoyed every minute of celebrating so many milestones with my family (no weddings, though--I just threw that one in there), and I am so excited about seeing my littlest grandchildren again. &nbsp;No, I am just explaining why this is not a good time to visit my garden. &nbsp;The spring show of tulips and daffodils is over, and in their place are weeds . . . lots of weeds. &nbsp;At the rate I'm going, some of those weeds are going to be there for awhile, so instead of showing any long views of the garden today, we'll just focus on close-ups of a few pretty blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IZrdGjjUYpI/WRrzO6h7EJI/AAAAAAAAP3o/l498WGt67GwTYfxZYBkJ3WVNixX39GGnACLcB/s1600/DSCN7024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IZrdGjjUYpI/WRrzO6h7EJI/AAAAAAAAP3o/l498WGt67GwTYfxZYBkJ3WVNixX39GGnACLcB/s640/DSCN7024.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />&nbsp; &nbsp;After heavy rains at the beginning of the month that turned the garden into a swamp and a cold spell with the threat of frost, the weather finally settled down so that I could get back into the garden and plant whenever there are a few uninterrupted minutes. &nbsp;Typical of Illinois weather, we've gone from coat weather to tank top weather in just a few days, and now I'm griping that it's too hot to work outside.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2huFYw3KSc/WRrzZ5HthhI/AAAAAAAAP30/lqZfm94xn0U7BvgXSO7vJ6nEagVceSaGwCLcB/s1600/DSCN7184%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y2huFYw3KSc/WRrzZ5HthhI/AAAAAAAAP30/lqZfm94xn0U7BvgXSO7vJ6nEagVceSaGwCLcB/s640/DSCN7184%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />May is usually my planting-frenzy month. &nbsp;There are annuals from all my shopping sprees the past few weeks covering my back porch, my front porch, and the patio. &nbsp;Only a few containers have been planted so far, but I'm not in a big hurry to change this pot when the sweet little violas and alyssum from April are still looking so good.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWkQWxR78aQ/WRtDMu5BD-I/AAAAAAAAP4E/zkp-DCWRa8wD4mQ06dyKtxbs_D12ymxrACLcB/s1600/DSCN7062%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="554" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NWkQWxR78aQ/WRtDMu5BD-I/AAAAAAAAP4E/zkp-DCWRa8wD4mQ06dyKtxbs_D12ymxrACLcB/s640/DSCN7062%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Other than the annuals, May is usually a transition month here, though there are a few perennials blooming. &nbsp;The peony bud shown earlier opened up early in the month, and I'm happy to see that 'Scarlett O'Hara' is sporting not just one bloom, as in earlier years, but five blooms this year.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-awSAMwh5mwA/WRtDVQOZW2I/AAAAAAAAP4M/mdwVrZ3AiOs_PcoSRJW-2un5AQq-3eD5wCEw/s1600/DSCN7177%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="404" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-awSAMwh5mwA/WRtDVQOZW2I/AAAAAAAAP4M/mdwVrZ3AiOs_PcoSRJW-2un5AQq-3eD5wCEw/s640/DSCN7177%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Other peonies are still budding up--I usually think of Memorial Day when I think of peonies--but the NOID white peony has a few blooms already. &nbsp;The <i>Amsonia Hubrichtii </i>makes a nice backdrop for them, though as is usually the case in my garden, this was a happy accident in planting, not a carefully thought-out design. &nbsp;Other <i>Amsonia </i>are also blooming, though I find it hard to capture their blue blooms on camera.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7VsO36qp9o/WRtDO4i-EWI/AAAAAAAAP4I/CXiKHSOTo08BKBPBQui6xKk0VkNGnfBkwCLcB/s1600/DSCN7064%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7VsO36qp9o/WRtDO4i-EWI/AAAAAAAAP4I/CXiKHSOTo08BKBPBQui6xKk0VkNGnfBkwCLcB/s640/DSCN7064%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The clematis 'Nelly Moser' also bloomed early and is covered with blooms. &nbsp;I have a hard time catching this one at the right time in the spring to prune it, and last year I made the mistake of pruning it too hard and too late so there were very few blooms. &nbsp;This year I was late again, so I just left it alone, and I'm glad.<br />&nbsp;<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xpfX_9Ulv1Q/WRtDZwR0y1I/AAAAAAAAP4Q/exvIqA4ujvc4KdnI0oCgc81dLrvFlFj2QCLcB/s1600/DSCN7174%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="550" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xpfX_9Ulv1Q/WRtDZwR0y1I/AAAAAAAAP4Q/exvIqA4ujvc4KdnI0oCgc81dLrvFlFj2QCLcB/s640/DSCN7174%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Columbines blooming under the 'Limelight' hydrangea. &nbsp;I transplanted some native columbines from my mother's garden last year, but I haven't seen any sign of them blooming yet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6-QeaCRRmk/WRrzQNy13mI/AAAAAAAAP3s/laT89NAiq1cUoFhGmm6RuGeR7X2YXrgRQCLcB/s1600/DSCN7011%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6-QeaCRRmk/WRrzQNy13mI/AAAAAAAAP3s/laT89NAiq1cUoFhGmm6RuGeR7X2YXrgRQCLcB/s640/DSCN7011%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Speaking of natives, there are a few early flowers in the butterfly garden as well. &nbsp;<i>Phlox pilosa, </i>also known throughout the blogging world as <a href="http://www.clayandlimestone.blogspot.com/">Gail's </a>PPPP, has happily spread itself around this area.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FF2aissBY8g/WRrzTKrmFII/AAAAAAAAP3w/toeT32AqGhcwKz1_eN-q2wDv4u0JtK0dQCLcB/s1600/DSCN7021%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FF2aissBY8g/WRrzTKrmFII/AAAAAAAAP3w/toeT32AqGhcwKz1_eN-q2wDv4u0JtK0dQCLcB/s640/DSCN7021%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And I am thrilled to finally have some Golden Alexanders <i>Zizia aurea</i>&nbsp;blooming! &nbsp;I've tried planting them from seed before with no luck, and last year I planted some seedlings from the local prairie plant sale, but never saw any signs of bloom. &nbsp;But patience has paid off, and these look so robust, I have a feeling I will have even more in the future.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-izXg0TH5EH4/WRtDiT7D9DI/AAAAAAAAP4Y/do1lfhRoQi4ugtSDlYboQGRLVl5QWYI3wCEw/s1600/DSCN7096%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-izXg0TH5EH4/WRtDiT7D9DI/AAAAAAAAP4Y/do1lfhRoQi4ugtSDlYboQGRLVl5QWYI3wCEw/s640/DSCN7096%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />Irises are blooming in the Arbor Bed and the Lily Bed--white, pale lavender, and yellow. &nbsp;But my favorite are these purple and white bearded irises, a passalong a couple of years ago from <a href="http://www.plantpostings.blogspot.com/">Beth of Plant Postings. &nbsp;</a>Notice how many blooms are on each plant!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WApoMjzC2tw/WRtDgipFvgI/AAAAAAAAP4U/26uhcxFH1M4Y9TvvSygW7CMXo8jkgQx5wCEw/s1600/DSCN7093%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="580" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WApoMjzC2tw/WRtDgipFvgI/AAAAAAAAP4U/26uhcxFH1M4Y9TvvSygW7CMXo8jkgQx5wCEw/s640/DSCN7093%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />They're especially beautiful to me because I once had several of these at my old house, given to me by my mother. &nbsp;When we moved, I dug up a few plants, but forgot all about these. &nbsp;When I look at them, I think not only of Beth, but also of my mother.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jioFMDCF9fY/WRtD1pYYbdI/AAAAAAAAP4c/kZ8idcnvaHUJNMgN0txd0wEX0Qox3oosQCEw/s1600/DSCN7150%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jioFMDCF9fY/WRtD1pYYbdI/AAAAAAAAP4c/kZ8idcnvaHUJNMgN0txd0wEX0Qox3oosQCEw/s640/DSCN7150%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Finally, this is NOT my garden! &nbsp;It's the MG garden at the county nursing home where I volunteer every summer. &nbsp; This is another activity that has taken up much of my time in the past few weeks, since I am one of the co-chairs. &nbsp;We are going to be on the annual Garden Walk this year, so we have spent more time than usual weeding and dividing to get everything spruced up for the walk, as well as hours planning and plant shopping. &nbsp;But it's already a beautiful garden as you can see from just this one little corner, and it really is a joy to work there.<br /><br />And now back to weeding and planting in my own garden . . . and maybe taking a few swipes at the layers of dust in my house:)<br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is hosted each month by Carol of <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">May Dreams Gardens </a>and author of <i><b>Potted and Pruned. </b></i>&nbsp;Thanks, Carol, for helping me keep a monthly record of what is blooming in my garden!<br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-27272194876629261842017-04-19T09:23:00.000-05:002017-04-19T09:23:16.310-05:00GBBD: April BeautiesI know I am really, really late to this month's Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day, but with Easter weekend, tax day, and many commitments the past two weeks, I haven't had time to sit down and read blogs for awhile. &nbsp;But what a difference a month makes! &nbsp;In March I had a few early bulbs trying to bloom in the snow, and this month . . . well, let me show you . . .<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSViZETAAvc/WPdW81MvJiI/AAAAAAAAP0s/YcOL3EYVd6g3CYe0QrPSX3XVTRYjO-f2gCLcB/s1600/DSCN6684%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VSViZETAAvc/WPdW81MvJiI/AAAAAAAAP0s/YcOL3EYVd6g3CYe0QrPSX3XVTRYjO-f2gCLcB/s640/DSCN6684%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Since the end of March there has been a steady stream of daffodils blooming.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gPNIphXnD0Y/WPdZbwJV2BI/AAAAAAAAP04/20vaM_9vzgwX66SjQLhy_Ka-AN2-7hNUACLcB/s1600/DSCN6741%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gPNIphXnD0Y/WPdZbwJV2BI/AAAAAAAAP04/20vaM_9vzgwX66SjQLhy_Ka-AN2-7hNUACLcB/s640/DSCN6741%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">From the standard yellow trumpet daffodils to ruffled doubles to . . .</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cqlopw0k5ac/WPdZgOIeX-I/AAAAAAAAP08/XEUNGQjfxzwpH_siEtigl8jW1GEgvlH_ACLcB/s1600/DSCN6784%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="598" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cqlopw0k5ac/WPdZgOIeX-I/AAAAAAAAP08/XEUNGQjfxzwpH_siEtigl8jW1GEgvlH_ACLcB/s640/DSCN6784%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">. . . daffodils with contrasting cups to . . .</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MfrSkjBwI7o/WPdcioq0WZI/AAAAAAAAP1Y/fDFbRPy0XYYckzfQM_hC8K3OKIgy1mBCgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6703%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="590" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MfrSkjBwI7o/WPdcioq0WZI/AAAAAAAAP1Y/fDFbRPy0XYYckzfQM_hC8K3OKIgy1mBCgCLcB/s640/DSCN6703%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">. . . &nbsp;miniature daffodils.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tM-Crskxi4w/WPdZ0WJAU0I/AAAAAAAAP1A/FnnHdjrOESQwo0H4w5RlienGQ0dHTLhnQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6747%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="436" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tM-Crskxi4w/WPdZ0WJAU0I/AAAAAAAAP1A/FnnHdjrOESQwo0H4w5RlienGQ0dHTLhnQCLcB/s640/DSCN6747%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I've forgotten the names of most, except for 'Mount Hood,'&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">a white beauty that has been a vigorous multiplier.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7YsIjpgjJ7U/WPdZ4YA4CJI/AAAAAAAAP1E/9QuPiN08ZEIjng9zFEfMCrVnx8ViMt8gwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6781%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="636" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7YsIjpgjJ7U/WPdZ4YA4CJI/AAAAAAAAP1E/9QuPiN08ZEIjng9zFEfMCrVnx8ViMt8gwCLcB/s640/DSCN6781%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />After the rabbits and/or deer ate many of my tulips after a bad winter a few years ago, I have been planting many more daffodils than tulips. &nbsp;Most of my purchases have been collections of bulbs for naturalizing, another reason I don't know the names of most of these.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YwSwidMbJtQ/WPdZ97-nxHI/AAAAAAAAP1I/ZZL7quSkeNMNzl1te-Me7kTxpWLbZ6TfwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6774%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YwSwidMbJtQ/WPdZ97-nxHI/AAAAAAAAP1I/ZZL7quSkeNMNzl1te-Me7kTxpWLbZ6TfwCLcB/s640/DSCN6774%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">But I like the variety and the longer bloom time from these collections. &nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FG1M2Z3c-yA/WPdaBz24OoI/AAAAAAAAP1M/lwB8oAs3nSc7RPBETjtLcgEoDbVBVHRYwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6789%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FG1M2Z3c-yA/WPdaBz24OoI/AAAAAAAAP1M/lwB8oAs3nSc7RPBETjtLcgEoDbVBVHRYwCLcB/s640/DSCN6789%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />These slender narcissi in the shade garden are one of my favorites. &nbsp;As you can see, there is so much more blooming right now than daffodils--hellebores are still going strong, tulips are at their peak, tiny pushkinia dot the front of the garden here and there, as well as a few early perennials.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mtF_tTK1EXA/WPdfjYnW4KI/AAAAAAAAP1k/IrbBYOMLIAEoFo7j08YdYEuRzioI68KAQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mtF_tTK1EXA/WPdfjYnW4KI/AAAAAAAAP1k/IrbBYOMLIAEoFo7j08YdYEuRzioI68KAQCLcB/s640/DSCN6823.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The only disappointment this year has been the flowering crabapples. &nbsp;I wait all year for that one special week in the spring when our long lane is a bower of blooms, as you can see in my header photo from last year. &nbsp;But most of the crabapples didn't bloom as much as usual; perhaps one of the cold nights we had two weeks ago nipped the buds. It has happened before, so I am hoping that next year all the blooms will return. &nbsp;The white flowering crab was filled with blooms, however, though the wind and rain this past weekend finished them off. &nbsp;And it has been a great year for redbuds.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psdta_6Y4y0/WPdjVbE-X2I/AAAAAAAAP10/1vQydFX5SMgS_wSVM24RqCnMT1nOp-AYgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6838%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="522" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psdta_6Y4y0/WPdjVbE-X2I/AAAAAAAAP10/1vQydFX5SMgS_wSVM24RqCnMT1nOp-AYgCLcB/s640/DSCN6838%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I was worried about the lilacs last Bloom Day, as they were budding up just as a freeze hit us, but I needn't have worried. &nbsp;The old lilac was in full bloom for Easter Sunday.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FqdVXn5A9G8/WPdjYjbuaaI/AAAAAAAAP14/sm9O_xqPS7IxSj8LCgk-ni3REEkHoOMpQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FqdVXn5A9G8/WPdjYjbuaaI/AAAAAAAAP14/sm9O_xqPS7IxSj8LCgk-ni3REEkHoOMpQCLcB/s640/DSCN6841.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Other perennials blooming right now include the Pulmonarias and the Epimedeum above. &nbsp;</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBA_CWInZtQ/WPdja5FhOjI/AAAAAAAAP18/tb-Q3l1Phro3mWqppqc6eBhpCBPSYtOywCLcB/s1600/DSCN6843.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RBA_CWInZtQ/WPdja5FhOjI/AAAAAAAAP18/tb-Q3l1Phro3mWqppqc6eBhpCBPSYtOywCLcB/s640/DSCN6843.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">'Jack Frost' Brunnera, still one of my favorites.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZL5dPvZJDo/WPdjc9KIHwI/AAAAAAAAP2A/0rwPcyu3eDIAvyKkn2cUJBd0585HXSjMgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6863%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZL5dPvZJDo/WPdjc9KIHwI/AAAAAAAAP2A/0rwPcyu3eDIAvyKkn2cUJBd0585HXSjMgCLcB/s640/DSCN6863%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The old-fashioned Bleeding Heart is blooming as is my newest bleeding heart added last year, Dicentra 'Gold Heart.' &nbsp;The foliage on this plant is stunning!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ujz8U3RkETw/WPdjlVX7wvI/AAAAAAAAP2E/MF_84wfhU-kBSCK-rBpazj0c_jH-PWvYwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ujz8U3RkETw/WPdjlVX7wvI/AAAAAAAAP2E/MF_84wfhU-kBSCK-rBpazj0c_jH-PWvYwCLcB/s640/DSCN6887.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And finally, one of the best parts of spring to me--it is Tulip Time!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCT6WaxtQeQ/WPdlQtypAyI/AAAAAAAAP2U/P-0ykLrgCbUkJwuGibiu-5ZvVPoIPyLpQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6913%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iCT6WaxtQeQ/WPdlQtypAyI/AAAAAAAAP2U/P-0ykLrgCbUkJwuGibiu-5ZvVPoIPyLpQCLcB/s640/DSCN6913%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Because tulips can be short-lived, every spring is a surprise since I never know what will return. &nbsp;A few of my favorites that I was happy to see come up again include 'Ad Rem' above.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcopJ602P2g/WPdlWAvU6-I/AAAAAAAAP2Y/2ygwJxGrq3ErFXl1CD9oNaymK8_isf47wCLcB/s1600/DSCN6930%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZcopJ602P2g/WPdlWAvU6-I/AAAAAAAAP2Y/2ygwJxGrq3ErFXl1CD9oNaymK8_isf47wCLcB/s640/DSCN6930%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">My "namesake" 'Rosalie' also returned.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ok1nm8HG53M/WPdjPLpoudI/AAAAAAAAP1w/k2C3KTJQhMoXsA2PtrlzIoM7tpBqr_vewCLcB/s1600/DSCN6926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ok1nm8HG53M/WPdjPLpoudI/AAAAAAAAP1w/k2C3KTJQhMoXsA2PtrlzIoM7tpBqr_vewCLcB/s640/DSCN6926.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">As did the longer-lived species tulips, 'Lady Jane.' &nbsp;These are multiplying as well.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QFr5z2oCdsw/WPdlsapae4I/AAAAAAAAP2c/iwkfIKAJwGo7gDigw6nQS32YOPeBZH7gQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6768%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QFr5z2oCdsw/WPdlsapae4I/AAAAAAAAP2c/iwkfIKAJwGo7gDigw6nQS32YOPeBZH7gQCLcB/s640/DSCN6768%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The neon-bright orange tulips that I don't remember ever planting returned&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">for what must be their eighth or ninth year!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UtgAbXUSF1I/WPdl8fSln5I/AAAAAAAAP2g/odtfQATCx-gD1TDSuS7733sWrThrih8sgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6804%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UtgAbXUSF1I/WPdl8fSln5I/AAAAAAAAP2g/odtfQATCx-gD1TDSuS7733sWrThrih8sgCLcB/s640/DSCN6804%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And my very favorite tulip of all, 'Akebono,' is still as gorgeous as ever.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k4h0f3_wwUk/WPdmPKknI9I/AAAAAAAAP2k/ylHtvw90q1kaSzy6ggYnxfPZ6GWfo97xQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k4h0f3_wwUk/WPdmPKknI9I/AAAAAAAAP2k/ylHtvw90q1kaSzy6ggYnxfPZ6GWfo97xQCLcB/s640/DSCN6725.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />Then there are a few new varieties of tulips planted last fall including this 'Silverstream.' &nbsp;It looks like a twin to 'Akebono,' doesn't it? &nbsp;In fact, if I hadn't marked where I planted these last year, I wouldn't have been able to tell the difference.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GJcURVlozo/WPdnw4lSFVI/AAAAAAAAP20/8ZFUxULb0xEsg4Kp_IfK-caBsxaX_ujyACLcB/s1600/DSCN6905%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GJcURVlozo/WPdnw4lSFVI/AAAAAAAAP20/8ZFUxULb0xEsg4Kp_IfK-caBsxaX_ujyACLcB/s640/DSCN6905%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="562" /></a></div><br />Also new this year is a tulip I've admired on <a href="https://gardeninacity.wordpress.com/">Jason's</a> blog for several years--'Coleur Cardinal.' &nbsp;They are a little shorter than most of my tulips, so I'm glad I planted them in the front where they can be seen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXAXR0DwYjY/WPdn5U5u0TI/AAAAAAAAP24/eNLEKcCatnUY6HMXvTgPTi3hfYSCQSBsACLcB/s1600/DSCN6742%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eXAXR0DwYjY/WPdn5U5u0TI/AAAAAAAAP24/eNLEKcCatnUY6HMXvTgPTi3hfYSCQSBsACLcB/s640/DSCN6742%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="556" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">'Rembrandt' is also new this year.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVlQldqr8_I/WPdoBwRtKdI/AAAAAAAAP28/aNMrXv5L6YURTB_n1GJqqGZC919AruYoACLcB/s1600/DSCN6879%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVlQldqr8_I/WPdoBwRtKdI/AAAAAAAAP28/aNMrXv5L6YURTB_n1GJqqGZC919AruYoACLcB/s640/DSCN6879%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="514" /></a></div><br />Every year I plant more tulips in my roadside garden, hoping for an eye-catching display for passersby, and every year the voles (or some critter) dashes my hopes. &nbsp;This year was no exception, though a few bulbs escaped being devoured. &nbsp;These are 'Upstar,' an experiment I tried this year for the first time. &nbsp;I purchased a bag of these that were intended to be planted, bag and all. &nbsp;I was pretty skeptical, but the results were better than I expected.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qW5t3Zc1rS0/WPdmmtV6kmI/AAAAAAAAP2o/lRmt3s_5rxgKi_R6tDmBRqHqteApmtZCQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6882%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qW5t3Zc1rS0/WPdmmtV6kmI/AAAAAAAAP2o/lRmt3s_5rxgKi_R6tDmBRqHqteApmtZCQCLcB/s640/DSCN6882%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="534" /></a></div><br />Only a few of the new 'Lightning Sun' survived in this area, which is a shame, because these are a vibrant orange Darwin tulip. &nbsp;<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FAGntzJ5C4c/WPdmpIqYXyI/AAAAAAAAP2s/Clo2FtSk7GYPS7qPvdW7BDcsiKgufe6JgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6884%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FAGntzJ5C4c/WPdmpIqYXyI/AAAAAAAAP2s/Clo2FtSk7GYPS7qPvdW7BDcsiKgufe6JgCLcB/s640/DSCN6884%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As I type this, we are having another unusually warm day with temperatures nearing 80 today. &nbsp;The tulips have been blooming at warp speed the last few days and won't last long in these temperatures. &nbsp;It's time to get outside and enjoy them while I can! <br /><br />Thanks to Carol at <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">May Dreams Gardens</a> for hosting Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day every month and for being patient with latecomers like me:) Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-1652603645621193142017-04-02T13:00:00.000-05:002017-04-02T13:00:26.371-05:00Springtime in ChicagoLast week my friend Beckie and I hit the road and drove up to Chicago for the Chicago Flower and Garden Show. &nbsp;This has become somewhat of an annual tradition for us the past several years, a welcome breath of spring, especially in years when it seems winter will never end. &nbsp;Because we weren't able to make it last year, we were especially excited to see the show again this year.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LY0LBGD-VHU/WN5S93MSacI/AAAAAAAAPyw/WP5qDWf9J6k4Q7-2qiZvVpJAQkq1XtKDgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6628.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LY0LBGD-VHU/WN5S93MSacI/AAAAAAAAPyw/WP5qDWf9J6k4Q7-2qiZvVpJAQkq1XtKDgCLcB/s640/DSCN6628.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />The show is held each year at Navy Pier, a popular attraction in downtown Chicago that is celebrating its 100th birthday this year. &nbsp;The entrance display highlighted this birthday and introduced the show's theme, "Chicago in Bloom" with replicas of famous landmarks in the city, including "The Picasso," the iconic sculpture in Daley Plaza.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Of_t24j2j2Y/WN5TCzG3t_I/AAAAAAAAPy0/4IMqh4tChUYJFJ9SFg4VxcZskxgctIkGACLcB/s1600/DSCN6591%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Of_t24j2j2Y/WN5TCzG3t_I/AAAAAAAAPy0/4IMqh4tChUYJFJ9SFg4VxcZskxgctIkGACLcB/s640/DSCN6591%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As we entered the huge exhibit hall, Beckie and I mapped our course, making sure we didn't miss any of the exhibits. &nbsp;I'm always drawn to the water features, and sure enough, there were some waterfalls.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k19NrAKk_m8/WN5THAuA9KI/AAAAAAAAPy4/LY-GIDaj-Cs0h98U8EdzyPpjev3BHsuoQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k19NrAKk_m8/WN5THAuA9KI/AAAAAAAAPy4/LY-GIDaj-Cs0h98U8EdzyPpjev3BHsuoQCLcB/s640/DSCN6586%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="520" /></a></div><br />And, of course, a koi pond. &nbsp;Every year I say that if I ever win the lottery, this is going to be my first extravagance--building a pond area with lots of big boulders and a waterfall. &nbsp;Since I rarely buy lottery tickets, I don't think this is going to happen any time soon:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6L5nJFhAvA/WN5TL6vp0qI/AAAAAAAAPy8/Sy0lzle5XU0TmmSq_piVRcusmPBmoE-pgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6612%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6L5nJFhAvA/WN5TL6vp0qI/AAAAAAAAPy8/Sy0lzle5XU0TmmSq_piVRcusmPBmoE-pgCLcB/s640/DSCN6612%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another interesting water feature that is much more "do-able" was this simple water spout in front of drainage tiles filled with gravel. &nbsp;I'm not sure if the tiles had any purpose, but it was interesting and eye-catching.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j84kRUBIJz4/WN5TPYjTBoI/AAAAAAAAPzA/MU8IhAwFbkAu_y8VX-_BUWIKeN2aSHM0QCLcB/s1600/DSCN6597%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j84kRUBIJz4/WN5TPYjTBoI/AAAAAAAAPzA/MU8IhAwFbkAu_y8VX-_BUWIKeN2aSHM0QCLcB/s640/DSCN6597%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="556" /></a></div><br />Another way to incorporate water was this display containing the ultimate in rain chains--a wall of actual chains of different sizes with water flowing down them to decorative receptacles below. The sight and sound of the streaming water made you feel as if you were in the middle of a gentle rainstorm, a nice effect, I would think, on a hot summer day.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wLimvqqQj3M/WN-pzBXoeLI/AAAAAAAAPzQ/Rynf1Qiatncm7nepPTRQnyONXIZeR27twCLcB/s1600/DSCN6608%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wLimvqqQj3M/WN-pzBXoeLI/AAAAAAAAPzQ/Rynf1Qiatncm7nepPTRQnyONXIZeR27twCLcB/s640/DSCN6608%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="532" /></a></div><br />But a flower show is all about flowers, right? &nbsp;One exhibit featured dozens and dozens of different roses. &nbsp;My only complaint with this exhibit is that the roses were not marked with i.d. tags, so that if you found one you especially liked, you had to dig around the soil where you might find the original tag if you were lucky.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JwLvE-yq8HU/WN-p2LgM30I/AAAAAAAAPzU/6_cUvhaHzDYsWTQDlVogV1hdZr5D4U4aQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JwLvE-yq8HU/WN-p2LgM30I/AAAAAAAAPzU/6_cUvhaHzDYsWTQDlVogV1hdZr5D4U4aQCLcB/s640/DSCN6632.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another criticism of this year's show is that there wasn't much variety in the types of plants used. &nbsp;Hydrangeas were everywhere as were Senetti. &nbsp;I love hydrangeas, but these were all either a variety of 'Endless Summer'&nbsp;<i>macrophyllas </i>or the type of hydrangea usually found at a florist shop. &nbsp;If you're not familiar with Senetti--as I wasn't--they are a cool-weather annual. &nbsp;Although the bright pinks and purples of these plants certainly pop, I don't like to plant too many cool-weather annuals because they don't last long in our typical Illinois summers. &nbsp;It seems to me the different exhibitors could have been a little more imaginative in their choice of flowers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ea0Pbw7EQRk/WN-p4Ss85xI/AAAAAAAAPzY/wjX-cpYdQhElBPzjX7P5AKTfI4842Y5owCLcB/s1600/DSCN6598%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ea0Pbw7EQRk/WN-p4Ss85xI/AAAAAAAAPzY/wjX-cpYdQhElBPzjX7P5AKTfI4842Y5owCLcB/s640/DSCN6598%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One flower display I won't criticize was the tulip exhibit provided by Doornbosch Bros., a wholesale bulb company. &nbsp;First of all, I love tulips, and secondly, I really enjoy seeing the actual blooms rather than looking at photos in a catalog. &nbsp;Each stand of tulips was clearly marked, so that visitors could note the ones they especially liked and then order them later from the vendor's booth---which, of course, I did:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4V1yJyxWBBc/WN-ujZMnrnI/AAAAAAAAPzk/BWu9fIz5JwkiOnfdaVVFu6vbVzhnkeUTgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4V1yJyxWBBc/WN-ujZMnrnI/AAAAAAAAPzk/BWu9fIz5JwkiOnfdaVVFu6vbVzhnkeUTgCLcB/s640/DSCN6629.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One of the things I enjoy about any garden show is finding new ideas to incorporate in my own garden. &nbsp;This exhibit featured ways to re-purpose old items.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4YJgzkRPzq8/WN-ul8kHSzI/AAAAAAAAPzo/t5WPmuYznc4ZPB1-61XW4CMKqjLfCTVDwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4YJgzkRPzq8/WN-ul8kHSzI/AAAAAAAAPzo/t5WPmuYznc4ZPB1-61XW4CMKqjLfCTVDwCLcB/s640/DSCN6630.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A broken shovel? &nbsp;Don't throw it away--turn it into garden art!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZdBv-aHi78/WN-uwF56Q_I/AAAAAAAAPzs/EDPVOwxPxFImmRHXOCigkgViWnRiHqLQACLcB/s1600/DSCN6615%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZdBv-aHi78/WN-uwF56Q_I/AAAAAAAAPzs/EDPVOwxPxFImmRHXOCigkgViWnRiHqLQACLcB/s640/DSCN6615%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This year's theme of "Chicago in Bloom" was carried out in much more subtle ways than in past years, when exhibitors often were more imaginative in bringing out the theme. &nbsp;This display was more elaborate than most of the others with a replica of the Chicago "L" perched above the plantings. &nbsp;In the background you can see another exhibit, this one created by the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hsdaro2e-mY/WN-uylagiaI/AAAAAAAAPzw/rNoBZ7lfe4MBMFwOHJ7kC9p03_SGSM9fwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6617%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="592" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Hsdaro2e-mY/WN-uylagiaI/AAAAAAAAPzw/rNoBZ7lfe4MBMFwOHJ7kC9p03_SGSM9fwCLcB/s640/DSCN6617%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Chicago School for Ag Sciences is a magnet high school located on the South Side of the city. &nbsp;I didn't take many photos of their exhibit other than this display of plants and cute ideas for planters. &nbsp;But their exhibit is always impressive, and this year was no exception.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t1xZBVilTSM/WN-u1SMsq_I/AAAAAAAAPz0/DYz0Ikx6rywZ_xqLPaQQA6rVf5CkT4thACLcB/s1600/DSCN6620%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t1xZBVilTSM/WN-u1SMsq_I/AAAAAAAAPz0/DYz0Ikx6rywZ_xqLPaQQA6rVf5CkT4thACLcB/s640/DSCN6620%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a></div><br />The exhibit is manned by students from the high school, and we talked to a very articulate senior who explained the school's mission and curriculum. &nbsp;He also explained that the hundreds of plants on display would be taken back to their greenhouse and would be sold later to provide funding for their studies. &nbsp;Chicago City Schools often take a bad rap, but this high school's students show that this public school system is also doing something right.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Kob-PV3F_s/WN-vx5aChwI/AAAAAAAAPz8/tsVOK7jz_TgWkmyF1jCmWfLp4Nyr39ncACLcB/s1600/DSCN6638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Kob-PV3F_s/WN-vx5aChwI/AAAAAAAAPz8/tsVOK7jz_TgWkmyF1jCmWfLp4Nyr39ncACLcB/s640/DSCN6638.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Celebrating the city of Chicago in this year's theme wouldn't be complete without a tribute to the World Champion Chicago Cubs, a simple display of hundreds of chrysanthemum blooms. &nbsp;You know I would have to take picture of this:) &nbsp;And because I like saying it so much, I'll just repeat that--the World Series Champs Chicago Cubs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrS5fDpwerg/WN-v1PgbtLI/AAAAAAAAP0A/jIA_AD6NB0wGYquvehNi_jKmdY4YteOcwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YrS5fDpwerg/WN-v1PgbtLI/AAAAAAAAP0A/jIA_AD6NB0wGYquvehNi_jKmdY4YteOcwCLcB/s640/DSCN6640.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Ok, back to flowers--another simple water feature with a pot I just loved.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EizkGPejIpM/WN-v23XaYbI/AAAAAAAAP0E/1XO3C4jdRr8sS7R6eCev5uAs0xwA7TsJwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EizkGPejIpM/WN-v23XaYbI/AAAAAAAAP0E/1XO3C4jdRr8sS7R6eCev5uAs0xwA7TsJwCLcB/s640/DSCN6643.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One example of the Tablescapes exhibit, an annual exhibit at the show.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Chicago show has become much more downscaled than six or seven years ago when Beckie and I first started attending. &nbsp;The exhibits are much smaller and less elaborate than they were back then, and we were disappointed that one of the usual exhibitors wasn't there, a suburban nursery that specializes in unusual conifers. &nbsp;We were also disappointed that we didn't see an exhibit this year by the Women's Journeys in Fiber, who in the past have created some interesting and creative works in fiber revolving around a theme, including one year in hats and another in shoes. &nbsp;But when I looked again at the booklet on our way home, I discovered that there had indeed been an exhibit. &nbsp;I'm not sure how we missed it, but it must have been smaller than usual or we surely would have seen it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Still, despite the shortcomings, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and finished our afternoon visiting the many vendors' booths. &nbsp;I've learned to ignore the massage chairs, the miracle face creams, and anything non-related to gardening. &nbsp;But I did make a few purchases; besides the tulips and other bulbs, I was happy to find a booth for the <a href="https://seedkeepercompany.com/">Seed Keeper company </a>where I bought some burlap "girdles" for planters as well as some of Annie Haven's Moo Poo Tea. &nbsp;I can't wait to try both in the garden this year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t8Smg9Zb_Xw/WN-wKi1CSWI/AAAAAAAAP0M/ICI8WJLMGUMcZiKIoHDNmVdVAQhb4Kk9wCLcB/s1600/DSCN0859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t8Smg9Zb_Xw/WN-wKi1CSWI/AAAAAAAAP0M/ICI8WJLMGUMcZiKIoHDNmVdVAQhb4Kk9wCLcB/s640/DSCN0859.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Besides enjoying the show, I always enjoy a trip to the "big city," and we couldn't have picked a more beautiful day. &nbsp;Temperatures were in the 70's, and there were throngs of people walking down Navy Pier. &nbsp;We took a few breaks from walking around the Exhibit Hall to sit outside and enjoy the sunshine and marveled at the number of people there. &nbsp;I'm not sure if people were simply enjoying the first truly spring day in the city, but I am pretty sure that most people in Chicago had taken this day off work:)<br /><br />A beautiful spring day, garden inspirations, and time spent with my best friend--what more could you ask for?!Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-21037432899389034142017-03-15T08:38:00.004-05:002017-03-15T08:38:35.857-05:00Is it Spring Yet?? March GBBDGoodness, it's been awhile since I have participated in Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. &nbsp;But I haven't had much to show off the past few months. &nbsp;There have been no forced bulbs indoors to brighten up a winter's day--I never did find those amaryllis bulbs I stored away last fall; they will probably turn up in July:) &nbsp;And I really didn't think anyone would want to see the straggly plants I potted up to over-winter and then promptly neglected. &nbsp;So I opted out of the past few Bloom Days, waiting for the first spring blooms to appear so that I had something worthwhile to share.<br /><br />It has been such a weird winter weather-wise. &nbsp;We haven't had enough snow all season to do much more than cover the ground for a few days before it melted, and I don't think the temperatures ever dropped below 0, both very unusual for Illinois. &nbsp;February was the warmest February on record for our area, and I fully expected to have an early spring. &nbsp;We spent last week visiting the two youngest grandchildren in Texas, where the temps were in the 70's nearly every day, so I was expecting to come home to see a garden full of daffodils. &nbsp;Instead, I found this:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lePki-51UG0/WMk2ct-XyxI/AAAAAAAAPxQ/J6K_eOPsrJEYLGrlUh5QUVB777zponGPACLcB/s1600/DSCN6504.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lePki-51UG0/WMk2ct-XyxI/AAAAAAAAPxQ/J6K_eOPsrJEYLGrlUh5QUVB777zponGPACLcB/s640/DSCN6504.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And this:</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7dkg4PfZaE/WMk2ets3LII/AAAAAAAAPxU/c8qHM6aLrJgnfnyP3EI3hoRpCdeoe92KACLcB/s1600/DSCN6518%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="632" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7dkg4PfZaE/WMk2ets3LII/AAAAAAAAPxU/c8qHM6aLrJgnfnyP3EI3hoRpCdeoe92KACLcB/s640/DSCN6518%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Poor little Scilla and daffodils shivering in the snow. &nbsp;Once again, winter has returned, though not with the vengeance that has struck the Northeast--again, just enough snow to cover the ground.<br /><br />I really had high hopes for an early spring, after the early appearance of some blooms in February:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIuqlT_0jt4/WMk3yBqXGEI/AAAAAAAAPxg/81m9Zif7Hy88BxYTJaZoF1IBekmWURvywCLcB/s1600/DSCN6422%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aIuqlT_0jt4/WMk3yBqXGEI/AAAAAAAAPxg/81m9Zif7Hy88BxYTJaZoF1IBekmWURvywCLcB/s640/DSCN6422%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="478" /></a></div><br />On February 18 the first snowdrops appeared. &nbsp;They always come as such a surprise to me--I had been looking for signs of them for days with no luck, and then as if by magic, they appeared in full bloom on this February morning.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-osZX7DRI5tQ/WMk4Dp2wduI/AAAAAAAAPxk/st9wb6mcbW408mP4WdyrguKWg47gDt-ZQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6427%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-osZX7DRI5tQ/WMk4Dp2wduI/AAAAAAAAPxk/st9wb6mcbW408mP4WdyrguKWg47gDt-ZQCLcB/s640/DSCN6427%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">On February 23, the first crocuses opened up,</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;a new record for the earliest crocuses in my garden, I believe.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2kwqtHnL0H0/WMk4JapWTQI/AAAAAAAAPxo/4Sc9c8gsLaMuzkOr-hXTI-srDGAVRD6XgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6441%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2kwqtHnL0H0/WMk4JapWTQI/AAAAAAAAPxo/4Sc9c8gsLaMuzkOr-hXTI-srDGAVRD6XgCLcB/s640/DSCN6441%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="528" /></a></div><br />That last week in February was so warm that I spent some time cleaning up in the garden--what a treat to finally be able to work outside! &nbsp;I was ready to call it a day after a few hours, but I decided to check the shade garden where I found these fat Hellebore buds. &nbsp;I promptly put on the gardening gloves once again and began snipping away all the old foliage so they could get the attention they deserve. &nbsp;They're probably blooming by now, but unfortunately, they're covered in snow, so I can't tell.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GWJP5vJsOpg/WMk9kTY9n2I/AAAAAAAAPyA/0If2989_vyURRugN2d8yUPNBndWfpcaxgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6510%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GWJP5vJsOpg/WMk9kTY9n2I/AAAAAAAAPyA/0If2989_vyURRugN2d8yUPNBndWfpcaxgCLcB/s640/DSCN6510%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />But back to today--instead of all the spring blooms I thought I might have by now, everything is in a holding pattern. &nbsp;More crocuses have opened up in the past week or two, but for now they are huddled up waiting for the sun and warmer temps.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K0JTSKIGBFA/WMk9ng1MWPI/AAAAAAAAPyE/ud_jTQ50rpAM29dbB2sStlTm4MHLIH3yACLcB/s1600/DSCN6516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K0JTSKIGBFA/WMk9ng1MWPI/AAAAAAAAPyE/ud_jTQ50rpAM29dbB2sStlTm4MHLIH3yACLcB/s640/DSCN6516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="600" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A few Scilla have been brave enough to appear, though most are waiting, too, for the snow to melt.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnOpI3Azo-o/WMk9pQUlUUI/AAAAAAAAPyI/IqmL-4mZx4Yy3B_wN0aylVmqSxrWrHzawCLcB/s1600/DSCN6513%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fnOpI3Azo-o/WMk9pQUlUUI/AAAAAAAAPyI/IqmL-4mZx4Yy3B_wN0aylVmqSxrWrHzawCLcB/s640/DSCN6513%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The big old lilac has budded up--the only plant I'm concerned about now. &nbsp;I'm afraid these early buds may be doomed after this latest cold spell.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ATHJJHs0AA/WMk9sNuaInI/AAAAAAAAPyM/DNB17H-jVpkmt-8byPDb9lK-ZcqxUQnYgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6521%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ATHJJHs0AA/WMk9sNuaInI/AAAAAAAAPyM/DNB17H-jVpkmt-8byPDb9lK-ZcqxUQnYgCLcB/s640/DSCN6521%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />But other than the lilac, I'm not too worried. &nbsp;Daffodils and tulips are up all over the place, waiting for the right time to bloom. &nbsp;Spring will arrive whenever it is good and ready.<br /><br />Thanks to Carol of <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">May Dreams Gardens</a>&nbsp;for hosting another Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day, and congrats on the new book, <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol!</a><br /><br /><br /><br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-12899121728976500922017-02-08T07:35:00.000-06:002017-02-08T07:35:06.960-06:00Summer Road Trip and Blogging FriendsEvery day the news coming out of Washington seems to get worse and worse, and my blood pressure is on an uphill climb. &nbsp;I could really use some garden therapy! &nbsp;Nothing like lopping off some dead stems and pulling some weeds to get rid of the frustration of feeling helpless. &nbsp;But of course, it's much too cold to do anything like that in my garden right now. &nbsp;Adding to to the doom and gloom are the gray skies which pretty much have been continual lately--sunny days have been few and far between.<br /><br />Since I can't get out and actually garden, let's do the next best thing--take a virtual tour of some gardens I visited this past summer with a group of fellow Midwest gardeners.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mOGYKF61EEY/V9VXqzvxcVI/AAAAAAAAPdc/OhHX5FFouRsELEVWEYe270-LOPyIH3HMwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mOGYKF61EEY/V9VXqzvxcVI/AAAAAAAAPdc/OhHX5FFouRsELEVWEYe270-LOPyIH3HMwCLcB/s640/DSCN5322.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is the third year that Beth of <a href="http://www.plantpostings.blogspot.com/">Plant Postings</a> and I and a few other Midwest blogging friends and gardeners have met up for a day of garden touring. &nbsp;This year we met in early September at the <a href="http://www.olbrich.org/">Olbrich Botanical Gardens</a> in Madison, Wisconsin. Olbrich contains sixteen acres in the city, just small enough to stroll through the entire garden in the half-day we were there.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTsgV9V9Dqo/V9VZ6zfKUII/AAAAAAAAPd8/pazH71y8s7Y2Gue6C2fFADe8m56c9iZ7gCLcB/s1600/DSCN5348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTsgV9V9Dqo/V9VZ6zfKUII/AAAAAAAAPd8/pazH71y8s7Y2Gue6C2fFADe8m56c9iZ7gCLcB/s640/DSCN5348.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We finally had the perfect day--after a scorching hot day the previous year and a cold, rainy day the year before that--with comfortable temperatures and plenty of sunshine to enjoy the variety of garden spaces and diverse plantings. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UkbV6kvuuSI/WJXWoWkgyPI/AAAAAAAAPv4/MY5OcINVrPMsEJUJAbhUk2s3Rj8Nn9znwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UkbV6kvuuSI/WJXWoWkgyPI/AAAAAAAAPv4/MY5OcINVrPMsEJUJAbhUk2s3Rj8Nn9znwCLcB/s640/DSCN5328.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Before we set off to explore, we were welcomed by the director who gave us a brief history and the mission of the gardens. &nbsp;Months later, I don't remember her name nor do I remember much about what she told us. &nbsp;But I do remember being impressed by Olbrich's partnership with the University of Wisconsin and public schools, especially the writing workshops they offer. Can you imagine a better place to sit and be inspired to write?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p-9cMY9XcYk/V9VaDS6kffI/AAAAAAAAPeA/vEUTm_M2joc6-SqVIwXb6bDNND1diHPhwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p-9cMY9XcYk/V9VaDS6kffI/AAAAAAAAPeA/vEUTm_M2joc6-SqVIwXb6bDNND1diHPhwCLcB/s640/DSCN5365.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The Perennial Garden features a mix of conifers, grasses, perennials, and a gentle stream.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0WJwDgirrzE/V9VaQvWyrwI/AAAAAAAAPeE/LubZM5LrV6gB13Yrn81jJmcNXPPyqkQUwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0WJwDgirrzE/V9VaQvWyrwI/AAAAAAAAPeE/LubZM5LrV6gB13Yrn81jJmcNXPPyqkQUwCLcB/s640/DSCN5357.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">One area is devoted mostly to different kinds of grasses.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bfLhrSAbEI8/V9VcuHP0A6I/AAAAAAAAPeo/AuS1qRLS0jsxXkdXErJpxdZtlJRrgqREQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bfLhrSAbEI8/V9VcuHP0A6I/AAAAAAAAPeo/AuS1qRLS0jsxXkdXErJpxdZtlJRrgqREQCLcB/s640/DSCN5412.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Although the gardens feature many native plants, tropicals and colorful annuals are also included.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAe04sdmxtU/WJnRCuMccvI/AAAAAAAAPwk/NaRQ4f4Izg8Qld5gofDEnl9t4O8aDmePACEw/s1600/DSCN5415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAe04sdmxtU/WJnRCuMccvI/AAAAAAAAPwk/NaRQ4f4Izg8Qld5gofDEnl9t4O8aDmePACEw/s640/DSCN5415.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Sometimes a surprise will be waiting around the corner as you walk from one area to another.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7mB1E6YKAM/V9Vc0kalQDI/AAAAAAAAPes/abYze-Y5fwYAQUFdRZix_elJiUwHRkHfQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7mB1E6YKAM/V9Vc0kalQDI/AAAAAAAAPes/abYze-Y5fwYAQUFdRZix_elJiUwHRkHfQCLcB/s640/DSCN5410.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One of the things I enjoy about visiting gardens like this is that I always come away with some new ideas for my own garden. &nbsp;Annual salvia is one of my favorites, but mixing it with different shades of pink gomphrena, as they did here, adds even more interest.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E6lH5ZqWGU/V9VYbrLMLZI/AAAAAAAAPds/_B_0dQ3q1oYxWVq8T2yyn8IRalmdhUZmgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E6lH5ZqWGU/V9VYbrLMLZI/AAAAAAAAPds/_B_0dQ3q1oYxWVq8T2yyn8IRalmdhUZmgCLcB/s640/DSCN5345.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">This <i>Eryngium </i>'Purple Sheen' also caught my eye.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0vlxUJoYg8/V9VXuwxteqI/AAAAAAAAPdg/OTLSw6ximBUbo3U5LZUEuqbRc_MnEQXBgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0vlxUJoYg8/V9VXuwxteqI/AAAAAAAAPdg/OTLSw6ximBUbo3U5LZUEuqbRc_MnEQXBgCLcB/s640/DSCN5325.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />An unusual plant that also caught all our eyes was this <i>Gomphocarpus Physocarpus,</i> also known as Hairy Balls. &nbsp;Even if I had the space for this in my garden, I'm not sure I'd want to explain to visitors what it was called:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-438hF-abu0Q/V9VdewZ6e9I/AAAAAAAAPew/N6zaYsZLHM0YbOzijLBg1I_swWTrj45pgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-438hF-abu0Q/V9VdewZ6e9I/AAAAAAAAPew/N6zaYsZLHM0YbOzijLBg1I_swWTrj45pgCLcB/s640/DSCN5334.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One plant I do plan on adding somewhere in my garden this year is Calamint. &nbsp;You can't tell from this photo but the bees were swarming all over this! &nbsp;Doing a little research on this plant I discovered it's in the mint family, so I guess I'd better be careful just where I plant it, however, if I don't want it to take over.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vouXYHHGOFc/V9VaZ6WEwxI/AAAAAAAAPeI/kEZJmps0nFoeSlrKT2gjwIy8eTSd6P0HgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5359%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="514" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vouXYHHGOFc/V9VaZ6WEwxI/AAAAAAAAPeI/kEZJmps0nFoeSlrKT2gjwIy8eTSd6P0HgCLcB/s640/DSCN5359%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Monarchs were out on this lovely fall day, too, enjoying some tropical milkweed.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xea3zKcYDPU/V9Vbyp-qgEI/AAAAAAAAPeY/Awqre65arzgudlfzmSjhJEGuAE-3uEWdgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xea3zKcYDPU/V9Vbyp-qgEI/AAAAAAAAPeY/Awqre65arzgudlfzmSjhJEGuAE-3uEWdgCLcB/s640/DSCN5380.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Olbrich Garden is home to the only Thai pavilion in the U.S. &nbsp;It was a gift from the Thai government to the University of Wisconsin and was built in Thailand, then disassembled and shipped to the U.S. where Thai artisans re-assembled it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2o-XJnp-Fis/V9Vb4ZR0XPI/AAAAAAAAPec/1FEv-zDMZooOx9LmWsYkIE0IGREYINzqgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5384.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2o-XJnp-Fis/V9Vb4ZR0XPI/AAAAAAAAPec/1FEv-zDMZooOx9LmWsYkIE0IGREYINzqgCLcB/s640/DSCN5384.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The gold leaf etchings on the ceiling and interior walls are stunning.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPcTf_hYsbE/V9Vb-fqF20I/AAAAAAAAPeg/Ye7v4QN0s7QitORn1YkDFa1qyOSDEMdIACLcB/s1600/DSCN5393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kPcTf_hYsbE/V9Vb-fqF20I/AAAAAAAAPeg/Ye7v4QN0s7QitORn1YkDFa1qyOSDEMdIACLcB/s640/DSCN5393.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">The area surrounding the pavilion is planted to resemble an authentic Thai garden.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rVt37-fcKg/V9VYhw_5l_I/AAAAAAAAPdw/GYz8ISfFpD00wGWRfGcZE_skFxMyuY2GwCEw/s1600/DSCN5343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8rVt37-fcKg/V9VYhw_5l_I/AAAAAAAAPdw/GYz8ISfFpD00wGWRfGcZE_skFxMyuY2GwCEw/s640/DSCN5343.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Of course, visiting a beautiful garden like this is always much more fun when you can share it with other gardening enthusiasts. &nbsp;Linda of<a href="http://eachlittleworld.typepad.com/"> Each Little World</a> and Beth of <a href="http://www.plantpostings.blogspot.com/">Plant Postings</a> take a moment to stop in one of the lushly planted gardens.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pDN512EAzqo/V9VadtqJS3I/AAAAAAAAPeM/4LQHj7HTZ4AcMka4PT8c8EZ-XEN6GqdNgCEw/s1600/DSCN5373.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pDN512EAzqo/V9VadtqJS3I/AAAAAAAAPeM/4LQHj7HTZ4AcMka4PT8c8EZ-XEN6GqdNgCEw/s640/DSCN5373.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Friends Beckie and Lisa of <a href="http://www.greenbowgardens.blogspot.com/">Greenbow </a>were my traveling companions and made the drive up to Madison an enjoyable gabfest:)</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fk30dBmhoiM/V9Vax904svI/AAAAAAAAPeQ/xYCx4PO578QnU08NFP88oYi7LqHdnAevACLcB/s1600/DSCN5391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fk30dBmhoiM/V9Vax904svI/AAAAAAAAPeQ/xYCx4PO578QnU08NFP88oYi7LqHdnAevACLcB/s640/DSCN5391.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Blogger Danielle joined our group for the first time this year, and naturally, when gardeners get together, no one is a stranger for very long. &nbsp;Danielle reminded me not to forget the tactile beauty of plants.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BAnDBUMuNo/V9VdvHsDMiI/AAAAAAAAPe0/F_O7fK043R4xDkhpH1lv7v_zCKcjmPSbgCEw/s1600/DSCN5399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BAnDBUMuNo/V9VdvHsDMiI/AAAAAAAAPe0/F_O7fK043R4xDkhpH1lv7v_zCKcjmPSbgCEw/s640/DSCN5399.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The Olbrich Botanical Gardens is definitely worth a visit if you are in the Madison, Wisconsin area. &nbsp;After spending the morning here, the six of us had a delicious lunch at a local deli/cafe and spent more time getting acquainted and talking about--what else?--gardening.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fvmy2v5iSIc/WJcztFWv4aI/AAAAAAAAPwI/lVSNS0GDJikQmpUUEmAahnI-ZT1ZJ0HywCLcB/s1600/DSCN5453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Fvmy2v5iSIc/WJcztFWv4aI/AAAAAAAAPwI/lVSNS0GDJikQmpUUEmAahnI-ZT1ZJ0HywCLcB/s640/DSCN5453.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />After lunch, <a href="http://eachlittleworld.typepad.com/">Linda</a> invited us to see her own garden. &nbsp;She and her husband have spent the past ten years converting their back yard into a Japanese garden, and all I can say is--Wow! &nbsp;Their garden deserves more than a few photos here, so I am going to wait till I hopefully have more time to write a whole post about it. &nbsp;Needless to say, I was entranced by this serene getaway in the middle of suburbia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7rel3Ge_ykc/WJczyBQMJ2I/AAAAAAAAPwM/ZczYChaC3y09Ad6IVNBKQmQYY05QmYdZACLcB/s1600/DSCN5463%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7rel3Ge_ykc/WJczyBQMJ2I/AAAAAAAAPwM/ZczYChaC3y09Ad6IVNBKQmQYY05QmYdZACLcB/s640/DSCN5463%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Our last stop of the day was at the <a href="https://arboretum.wisc.edu/">Wisconsin Arboretum.</a> The Arboretum is concerned with land sustainability and contains the world's oldest restored prairie as well as a small remnant of original prairie.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SYKHwJJWKUY/V9Ves8ixHxI/AAAAAAAAPfE/_iF-suGIUvUpg07RG-GGcDa5A9vjdJNHwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SYKHwJJWKUY/V9Ves8ixHxI/AAAAAAAAPfE/_iF-suGIUvUpg07RG-GGcDa5A9vjdJNHwCLcB/s640/DSCN5466.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As a Master Naturalist, Beth volunteers here and introduced us to Susan who is in charge of native plants at the Arboretum. &nbsp;One of the highlights of our stop here was hearing her talk about the rusty-patched bumblebee, which has recently been put on the Endangered Species list. &nbsp;This rare bee has been spotted at the Wisconsin Arboretum, one of the few places in the Midwest where it can still be found.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pDouT0mHF8g/V9Ve3w04CGI/AAAAAAAAPfM/5s_ZqDlaq-Yn60tyzvFo_c6K0JTs6jMIACLcB/s1600/DSCN5469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pDouT0mHF8g/V9Ve3w04CGI/AAAAAAAAPfM/5s_ZqDlaq-Yn60tyzvFo_c6K0JTs6jMIACLcB/s640/DSCN5469.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We enjoyed walking the trails through the tall fall-blooming prairie plants, but eventually the mosquitos got the best of us and we decided to call it a day. <br /><br />I have attended a few of the Garden Bloggers' Flings, which I've thoroughly enjoyed, but these smaller get-togethers are a great way to meet other bloggers within an easy driving distance. &nbsp;Many thanks to Beth for organizing this day and to Linda for opening her beautiful garden to us. &nbsp;I'm looking forward to another "Midwest Meet-Up" this summer!Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-90535897862686564722017-01-10T05:00:00.000-06:002017-01-10T07:41:17.783-06:00Reflections on 2016The new year is already a week old, but now that the Christmas decorations have finally been put away, I have some time to reflect on the past year. &nbsp;2016 was certainly eventful, full of dizzying joys and the depths of despair. &nbsp;But one of my resolutions for this year is to try to find something positive in every day, so I want to focus on the good parts of 2016.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CnMZ0RXIIS8/WHOSNtfEI2I/AAAAAAAAPtI/S2JABjl0-Q4KqtzaeF2Du9Nsbgtpfx56QCLcB/s1600/DSCN3516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CnMZ0RXIIS8/WHOSNtfEI2I/AAAAAAAAPtI/S2JABjl0-Q4KqtzaeF2Du9Nsbgtpfx56QCLcB/s640/DSCN3516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">January</span> </b>2016 was truly an awful month for me, full of personal loss. &nbsp;But in spite of all that, the many birds at the feeders provided for some quiet moments of enjoyment and a reminder that life goes on in spite of harsh conditions.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HhboDoPuBgY/WHOU0RtXpaI/AAAAAAAAPtc/aVa4KhYEo5IzkM1VBMcvyRQIo0_cWByYACLcB/s1600/DSCN3546%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HhboDoPuBgY/WHOU0RtXpaI/AAAAAAAAPtc/aVa4KhYEo5IzkM1VBMcvyRQIo0_cWByYACLcB/s640/DSCN3546%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-size: large;">February </span></b>brought its share of snow, and more time was spent enjoying the wonders of nature from the comfort of my living room window. &nbsp;By the end of the month, however, we had a reprieve from winter, and daffodils began an early emergence from the soil.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBI0TlbJvJU/WHOURgwwWRI/AAAAAAAAPtU/Nzg55fVOn_Yw5F98e_d4NSdtQD8n0Xt4wCLcB/s1600/DSCN3590%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBI0TlbJvJU/WHOURgwwWRI/AAAAAAAAPtU/Nzg55fVOn_Yw5F98e_d4NSdtQD8n0Xt4wCLcB/s640/DSCN3590%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">March</span>-</b>-can there be anything more uplifting to your spirits than the appearance of the first spring flowers? &nbsp;March is a fickle month in the Midwest, sometimes bringing the worst of winter weather, but last year all I remember is that it was warm and beautiful. &nbsp;By the end of the month, daffodils, hyacinths, and many other spring bulbs were in full bloom, and I was busy getting an early start on cleaning up the garden.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2n7p8tQ8iQg/WHOWVYXEzQI/AAAAAAAAPts/daOhxC8-LKoINe43TVIckyz_zaXKW9LaQCLcB/s1600/DSCN3999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2n7p8tQ8iQg/WHOWVYXEzQI/AAAAAAAAPts/daOhxC8-LKoINe43TVIckyz_zaXKW9LaQCLcB/s640/DSCN3999.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">April,</span></b> too, can sometimes break your heart with a teasing of spring that disappears under more cold or constant days of rain. &nbsp;But not so last year--April 2016 was glorious! &nbsp;Spring, as I've often said, is my favorite season of the year, and last year's spring was exceptional with warm weather and a daily explosion of blooms from all my tulips. &nbsp;New green growth was sprouting everywhere.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0CUjfe4TbU/WHOYJnUwHyI/AAAAAAAAPt4/VD5x2h51WdoeiHbxLJawO9pfpdURCrU0gCLcB/s1600/DSCN4230%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0CUjfe4TbU/WHOYJnUwHyI/AAAAAAAAPt4/VD5x2h51WdoeiHbxLJawO9pfpdURCrU0gCLcB/s640/DSCN4230%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>A warm April meant that most of the tulips and other spring bloomers had faded by the first of <b><span style="font-size: large;">May.</span> </b>&nbsp;Irises and peonies took center stage instead, although the month was more of a transition time in the garden. &nbsp;May is always the busiest month for me, as I plant containers and annuals in the flowerbeds and try to complete a host of other garden chores. &nbsp;My resolution for this year is try to slow down and enjoy this beautiful month more, although I suspect that will be hard to change.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n43qJO_3lDE/WHPaNBDDveI/AAAAAAAAPuM/_suILjQwDMgfPc3lwl-X7_V3EFZTQ-svwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4411%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n43qJO_3lDE/WHPaNBDDveI/AAAAAAAAPuM/_suILjQwDMgfPc3lwl-X7_V3EFZTQ-svwCLcB/s640/DSCN4411%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Ah, <b><span style="font-size: large;">June</span></b>--my favorite month of the year. &nbsp;The garden was bursting with color by mid-month, but it didn't take me long to choose one photo of the many I took during this time: coneflowers and butterflies--two of my favorites! &nbsp;If it was possible to freeze time and just live one day over and over again, I would pick a sunny day in June with swaths of coneflowers blooming and alive with bees and butterflies.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YFWwD-_q-1A/WHPclZEABdI/AAAAAAAAPuY/m-Mn_kpK_YUQ_bwK6ssNSsRG4b21NsP3wCLcB/s1600/DSCN4778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YFWwD-_q-1A/WHPclZEABdI/AAAAAAAAPuY/m-Mn_kpK_YUQ_bwK6ssNSsRG4b21NsP3wCLcB/s640/DSCN4778.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b><span style="font-size: large;">July</span> </b>brought even more color as coneflowers competed with lilies, a new one blooming each day it seemed. &nbsp;I've become addicted to all kinds of lilies and can't really pick a favorite although 'Stargazer,' which grew to new heights this year, would definitely be a contender.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n45LuIAxD6U/WHPdiLZQHWI/AAAAAAAAPug/8g2SJZvcZqUqHLznOMZOwBe8jpVr6d7MwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5093%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="538" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n45LuIAxD6U/WHPdiLZQHWI/AAAAAAAAPug/8g2SJZvcZqUqHLznOMZOwBe8jpVr6d7MwCLcB/s640/DSCN5093%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />If coneflowers represent June and lilies represent July, then the perfect choice for <span style="font-size: large;"><b>August</b> </span>would have to be zinnias. &nbsp;I've shown the 'Zowie' zinnias, one of my favorites, over and over again on Facebook and on summer posts here, but I did grow other zinnias as well. &nbsp;All of them performed exceptionally this year, probably due to the weather. &nbsp;It was a warm summer--not ungodly hot, but consistently hot throughout the season so that garden work was relegated to early mornings only. &nbsp;Besides the warm weather, we had consistent rainfall as well, so that everything seemed to grow taller and fuller than ever before.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WfLJNZAIY1M/WHPfevx6X3I/AAAAAAAAPuw/-jwwCLU5GAI_LCbXHxxJCzNnvP1h9DCzQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5522.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WfLJNZAIY1M/WHPfevx6X3I/AAAAAAAAPuw/-jwwCLU5GAI_LCbXHxxJCzNnvP1h9DCzQCLcB/s640/DSCN5522.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><b><br /></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">September</span></b> brought asters, goldenrod, the 'Limelight' hydrangea, and Japanese anemones as well as a few other fall-bloomers. The heat continued through the last month of summer, and I spent many moments enjoying the shade of the front porch watching the goldfinches feast on the fading coneflowers and the antics of hummingbirds. &nbsp;The warm weather meant the hummers stayed longer than usual; my last visitor stayed until the second week of October.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUfD_zJopXk/WHQVlf7yWaI/AAAAAAAAPvE/K7_eRyfL7Ign2jJBnR_ouZ9qynSVjf-mwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUfD_zJopXk/WHQVlf7yWaI/AAAAAAAAPvE/K7_eRyfL7Ign2jJBnR_ouZ9qynSVjf-mwCLcB/s640/DSCN5986.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />By <b><span style="font-size: large;">October,</span></b> much of the garden sensed the end of the year, though continued warm weather--and no frost!--kept many things blooming longer than usual. &nbsp;The <i>Amsonia hubrichtii, </i>which usually has a golden hue by October, stayed nearly green until November. &nbsp;The trees were slow to turn as well, and many didn't drop their leaves until December.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3hsB--e7SA/WHPfGJ1e9KI/AAAAAAAAPus/0w59vC8K9Ek8txnIyVrVLN9oWGjVvZMhgCLcB/s1600/DSCN6061%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3hsB--e7SA/WHPfGJ1e9KI/AAAAAAAAPus/0w59vC8K9Ek8txnIyVrVLN9oWGjVvZMhgCLcB/s640/DSCN6061%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />If one month symbolizes the extreme highs and lows of 2016, it has to be<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>November</b></span><b>.</b> &nbsp;On November 2, the Cubs won the World Series, ending a 108-year drought for long-suffering Cubs fans like myself. &nbsp;Unless you're a baseball fan, you probably won't understand the joyous delirium we all felt. But you will understand the joy I felt just three days later when my 8th grandchild, a precious little girl, was born. &nbsp;The other two granddaughters are older, so I am looking forward to tea parties and princess and fairy make-believe once again! <br /><br />As for the low, well, the following week was the Presidential election. &nbsp;Nothing else needs to be said, although I have vowed to try to be kinder and to be more active, speaking up for what I believe in the coming year.<br /><br />As for the garden, the first frost finally arrived on November 12, the latest first frost ever recorded in our area. &nbsp;So whatever else can be said about 2016, it was a great year in the garden--the longest blooming season in my memory!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y_An0XjeX8g/WHQWs98MnZI/AAAAAAAAPvM/57nXOKvwmEEo7ravh5TJn0sqj2ZwTWsLwCLcB/s1600/Reese.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y_An0XjeX8g/WHQWs98MnZI/AAAAAAAAPvM/57nXOKvwmEEo7ravh5TJn0sqj2ZwTWsLwCLcB/s640/Reese.jpg" width="576" /></a></div><br />By<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>December,</b> </span>bulbs had been planted, and the garden was going into its long winter's sleep. &nbsp;There was time at last to prepare for the holidays and to make the much-anticipated trip to Texas to meet my new granddaughter. &nbsp;This may not be the best photograph, technically speaking, but it's my favorite of 2016 because the year ended on such a positive note. &nbsp;This is what it's all about--family and sharing life with those you love.<br /><br />We don't know what 2017 may bring for the garden, but I know whether it's an outstanding year or just a mediocre one, we gardeners won't give up hope. &nbsp;And that is what I wish for all of you in the coming year--hope, peace, and love. &nbsp;As Ellen says, "Be kind to one another." &nbsp;💕Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-41294037929290383902016-11-16T08:22:00.000-06:002016-11-16T08:22:58.472-06:00November GBBD: End of the SeasonWhat a November this has been so far! &nbsp;The month began with the Cubs winning the World Series, the first time in 108 years. &nbsp;This die-hard Cubs' fan was ecstatic and walked around in a joyful delirium for at least a day. &nbsp;Three days later, a new baby granddaughter entered this world, and Grandma was filled with joy, not to mention impatient anticipation as we wait to make the drive to Texas to see her for the first time. &nbsp;And then three days after that was Election Day. &nbsp;Like many others, I watched in disbelief as results came in that night, and woke up the next morning filled with dread and worry. &nbsp;Talk about running the gamut of emotions in just one short week!<br /><br />But I'm not going to talk about politics today, nor the fairy-tale ending to this year's Cubs' season, nor am I even going to show off my precious granddaughter today. &nbsp;Instead, let's talk about the garden. &nbsp;The beginning of November was amazing with warm weather and many annuals still blooming in the garden.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EMi7hg8ejts/WCxew6RAWXI/AAAAAAAAPpo/wExTCaEd3DMPXHHBag5JqR6EzEGyarMIQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6024%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EMi7hg8ejts/WCxew6RAWXI/AAAAAAAAPpo/wExTCaEd3DMPXHHBag5JqR6EzEGyarMIQCLcB/s640/DSCN6024%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Just a few days ago, November 10, to be exact, I was admiring this 'Senorita Rosalita' Cleome. &nbsp;I've planted this cultivar in pots the last several years, and it never did particularly well. This year I decided to plant it in a bare spot in the sidewalk garden, and what a difference! &nbsp;Topping out at 3 1/2 feet tall and spreading even more in width, it is obviously much happier here with room to grow. &nbsp;Lesson learned for next year.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ2fr-ogxmI/WCxe2iUZkBI/AAAAAAAAPps/syVpdihFySUOERznRRtC9exCu-mtxpUkACLcB/s1600/DSCN6039%2B%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ2fr-ogxmI/WCxe2iUZkBI/AAAAAAAAPps/syVpdihFySUOERznRRtC9exCu-mtxpUkACLcB/s640/DSCN6039%2B%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />On the same day, I walked around admiring the zinnias, knowing their days were numbered. &nbsp;To my surprise, I found a late visitor enjoying the blooms. &nbsp;This poor Monarch looks like he's had a rough time, and sadly, I don't think he had time to make it South before the cold set in. &nbsp;Many of the zinnias were looking just as tattered, but there were still enough fresh blooms to enjoy one last time.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3DYsf7r1wPI/WCxfFod_j5I/AAAAAAAAPpw/ijmZY3KLKZUNt0S5CR2UR7L52MyJl8T2wCLcB/s1600/DSCN6061%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3DYsf7r1wPI/WCxfFod_j5I/AAAAAAAAPpw/ijmZY3KLKZUNt0S5CR2UR7L52MyJl8T2wCLcB/s640/DSCN6061%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One last time...because this was the scene the next morning. &nbsp;Our first frost arrived on November 11, and what survived that first morning was given a final blow the next morning with even colder temperatures. &nbsp;Seeing the end of summer/autumn blooms is always a bit sad, but I'm not complaining.This was the latest first frost ever recorded in our area, so we had an unusually long season to enjoy the garden this year.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FjUwefAOMO0/WCxff5CSERI/AAAAAAAAPp0/DjWSGQARL4sjlnpA-iaDpfUHKz07M9gHACLcB/s1600/DSCN6075%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FjUwefAOMO0/WCxff5CSERI/AAAAAAAAPp0/DjWSGQARL4sjlnpA-iaDpfUHKz07M9gHACLcB/s640/DSCN6075%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While the frost pretty much zapped the garden, there are still a few annuals blooming. &nbsp;'Victoria Blue' Salvia is still looking good as are the geraniums, and surprisingly, some verbena in a pot survived the cold. &nbsp;Of course, the few pansies I have are thriving.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aFdAFduXBCk/WCxfiJoi2mI/AAAAAAAAPp4/OPqH_GdZ8f42y1hJCyEYn8aA9UErBVHHQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6076%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aFdAFduXBCk/WCxfiJoi2mI/AAAAAAAAPp4/OPqH_GdZ8f42y1hJCyEYn8aA9UErBVHHQCLcB/s640/DSCN6076%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">As is the ruffled kale, which seems to get more colorful as the temperature drops.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XT2I3Nbk-M/WCxfp1e8WqI/AAAAAAAAPqA/nv3UKLW-q8M-sszP6yNQDg1ZSdU4H3M-wCLcB/s1600/DSCN6104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XT2I3Nbk-M/WCxfp1e8WqI/AAAAAAAAPqA/nv3UKLW-q8M-sszP6yNQDg1ZSdU4H3M-wCLcB/s640/DSCN6104.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The few roses I have don't mind the cooler weather either; 'Zephirine Drouhin' has even put out a few new blooms.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E900G1fFjpA/WCxf8chKZRI/AAAAAAAAPqE/nTeAaxIasusAD2YAtPUaenaXiDA-OwWPQCLcB/s1600/DSCN6063%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="524" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E900G1fFjpA/WCxf8chKZRI/AAAAAAAAPqE/nTeAaxIasusAD2YAtPUaenaXiDA-OwWPQCLcB/s640/DSCN6063%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />As the garden winds down for the year, it is a good time to enjoy the last days of autumn color. &nbsp;The leaves turned late this year. My maple, the star of our front yard every fall, still is hanging on to many of its leaves.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TZGoa-VKpFs/WCxf_DDfjMI/AAAAAAAAPqI/ztLm3svpZDgMR8YExYGXzBc2j9s55tv5wCLcB/s1600/DSCN6082%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TZGoa-VKpFs/WCxf_DDfjMI/AAAAAAAAPqI/ztLm3svpZDgMR8YExYGXzBc2j9s55tv5wCLcB/s640/DSCN6082%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Grasses are at their peak right now, and the seedheads of switchgrasses, for example, add beauty to the garden as they rustle in the breeze.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGmU6fK4HLU/WCxm3Ei_sfI/AAAAAAAAPqk/f-h49_e5y7AQfvkTcHz-EiumE1ziDzpJwCLcB/s1600/DSCN6101%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pGmU6fK4HLU/WCxm3Ei_sfI/AAAAAAAAPqk/f-h49_e5y7AQfvkTcHz-EiumE1ziDzpJwCLcB/s640/DSCN6101%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One of my favorite vignettes in the garden each year is this, <i>Amsonia hubrichtii </i>with a Beautyberry next to it. &nbsp;My camera wants to wash out the color for some reason, but this Amsonia is a dramatic gold right now and positively glows in the sunlight.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cGrpEQbk4OU/WCxgInFKF9I/AAAAAAAAPqQ/mRKiaLoP4RcGKPLTMnlpvQ3hD58W3Wg-wCLcB/s1600/DSCN6110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cGrpEQbk4OU/WCxgInFKF9I/AAAAAAAAPqQ/mRKiaLoP4RcGKPLTMnlpvQ3hD58W3Wg-wCLcB/s640/DSCN6110.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While November doesn't have the riot of colors that summer has, there is still much to enjoy in the garden. &nbsp;Even seedheads have a beauty all their own and sometimes an extra surprise if you look closely enough.<br /><br />&nbsp;I've really appreciated the extended season this year, especially this past week as I've found once again that there's nothing quite like gardening for soothing your soul.<br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is brought to you each month by <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol at May Dreams Gardens. </a>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-75635565478013399562016-10-16T13:51:00.001-05:002016-10-16T13:51:54.857-05:00October Bloom DayIt's time for another <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day. </a>&nbsp;Although I don't post as often as I used to or would like to do, I always try to participate in this monthly meme because it's a great way for me to keep a record of what is blooming each month. &nbsp;It's interesting to compare a month to previous years as well, especially in a month like October. &nbsp;Some years we have had a frost by this time and there's very little left in bloom. &nbsp;But unseasonably warm weather this year has kept the garden plugging along.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-59XskVCQKCA/WAOBGvXqLZI/AAAAAAAAPmI/W1GjrFzbDyk_ZxEv1woPkK-_iWMaAl00wCLcB/s1600/DSCN5893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-59XskVCQKCA/WAOBGvXqLZI/AAAAAAAAPmI/W1GjrFzbDyk_ZxEv1woPkK-_iWMaAl00wCLcB/s640/DSCN5893.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The garden is definitely winding down, however, There are still many green leaves on the hostas, but most are in the middle of their fall decay.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ej0H0QbVE1U/WAOBM8inX5I/AAAAAAAAPmM/WAFnZchebQgVcMNrxAxhwZRMX4Knk9YcQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5914%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="506" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ej0H0QbVE1U/WAOBM8inX5I/AAAAAAAAPmM/WAFnZchebQgVcMNrxAxhwZRMX4Knk9YcQCLcB/s640/DSCN5914%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">But there is still quite a bit in bloom. &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">What is more appropriate for this month than 'October Skies' Asters?</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSxet89RFKU/WAOBPgHU9KI/AAAAAAAAPmQ/qOt6eucx3MQkwqErL8p5o_J5bOKmkNuGQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5928%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XSxet89RFKU/WAOBPgHU9KI/AAAAAAAAPmQ/qOt6eucx3MQkwqErL8p5o_J5bOKmkNuGQCLcB/s640/DSCN5928%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="628" /></a></div><br />The New England Asters, which I have the most of, have long since turned to seedheads, but besides the later <i>Aster oblongifolius </i>I have a few others, including some <i>Aster tataricus</i>, a tall aster that somehow found its way into the back of my butterfly garden. &nbsp;And yes, I do know the botanical name has changed to <i>Symphyotrichum, </i>but that is such a mouthful and I am getting older and stuck in my ways, so they will always be asters to me.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6MgNNVqzXDo/WAOBWLQwRyI/AAAAAAAAPmU/hRp9BuGxm9gzSiTNOnvoeF_vZ_W_n-uLQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5851%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6MgNNVqzXDo/WAOBWLQwRyI/AAAAAAAAPmU/hRp9BuGxm9gzSiTNOnvoeF_vZ_W_n-uLQCLcB/s640/DSCN5851%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />There are also some large clumps of <i>Aster pilosus,</i> known as Frost Aster or Hairy Aster, that escaped the weeding tools this spring. &nbsp;This is not an aster for everyone, because many consider it a weed and it tends to spread pretty aggressively. &nbsp;Still, the bees love it, which makes it worth keeping a few. &nbsp;If you would like to know more about this plant, you can find it <a href="http://prairierosesgarden.blogspot.com/2010/10/wildflower-wednesday-frosty-blooms.html">here</a>.<br /><br />Speaking of bees, one thing you won't see today are any flying visitors in my garden. &nbsp;There are still some bees around, but I think many have started making nests for the winter. There are few butterflies as well. &nbsp;I have a seen a Monarch or two floating through the air this past week, but I think they, too, are sensing the change in seasons and starting their migration south. &nbsp;And Tuesday was the last day I spotted a hummingbird at the feeders. &nbsp;I only wish he had said goodbye! &nbsp;I wish them all safe travels and a warm winter and look forward to seeing them again next spring.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f10pkZmt98Q/WAOJ3k3IFSI/AAAAAAAAPmk/knl0wy73vIADw1m75lrp3iijW63DtJtywCLcB/s1600/DSCN5879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f10pkZmt98Q/WAOJ3k3IFSI/AAAAAAAAPmk/knl0wy73vIADw1m75lrp3iijW63DtJtywCLcB/s640/DSCN5879.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Autumn days have brought a fresh flush of blooms on the Knockout roses. 'Radsunny' adds some cheerful color to the Lily Bed. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QXIK7pWPemw/WAOKF0fSbdI/AAAAAAAAPms/w7mq2Os634U9Te9ccjq-nRcvKfHyLDUyQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5863%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QXIK7pWPemw/WAOKF0fSbdI/AAAAAAAAPms/w7mq2Os634U9Te9ccjq-nRcvKfHyLDUyQCLcB/s640/DSCN5863%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="540" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of my favorite flowers this time of year is the Japanese Anemone. &nbsp;I think this is 'Honorine Jobert,' but the tag has long since been lost.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3x9muJIK_ZQ/WAOKBTRy9BI/AAAAAAAAPmo/RbIzn4p4oc4NW4c1S0TtLuH-_UiA9xHrACEw/s1600/DSCN5844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3x9muJIK_ZQ/WAOKBTRy9BI/AAAAAAAAPmo/RbIzn4p4oc4NW4c1S0TtLuH-_UiA9xHrACEw/s640/DSCN5844.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The vegetable garden is pretty much done for the year except for green tomatoes that will probably never ripen. &nbsp;But on one end closest to the house, I always plant a few marigold seeds, and this fall they have taken over four to five feet of the garden! &nbsp;I'm not sure why they have spread so much this year, but I don't mind since they are choking out any weeds and certainly add a bright spot of color to this area.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RqBkeM2Rwjo/WAOKQPp2G5I/AAAAAAAAPmw/ZEroMm_G0MceXljoZSrAREy_FH8eEqkfQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5886%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RqBkeM2Rwjo/WAOKQPp2G5I/AAAAAAAAPmw/ZEroMm_G0MceXljoZSrAREy_FH8eEqkfQCLcB/s640/DSCN5886%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Autumn also means the 'Victoria Blue' Salvia has come into its own. &nbsp;This is one of my favorite annuals, and I have it planted in many places. &nbsp;While other annuals have faded or will turn brown at the first hint of frost, 'Victoria' will keep going until a killing frost.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rvmB4z0GejE/WAOKfcwi4yI/AAAAAAAAPm0/tf3vZIffEL89ZFpHA_7BzTxonEgeO1lpwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5866%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="560" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rvmB4z0GejE/WAOKfcwi4yI/AAAAAAAAPm0/tf3vZIffEL89ZFpHA_7BzTxonEgeO1lpwCLcB/s640/DSCN5866%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />'Wendy's Wish' isn't as hardy and won't last past the first touch of frost, but I do enjoy this larger, fuschia Salvia, and it's a favorite of the hummingbirds.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1cQiMyflfWk/WAOKtNQ5tTI/AAAAAAAAPm8/wzSymVUe9XIafWIpoUsUqikd7r55fN7fwCEw/s1600/DSCN5930%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1cQiMyflfWk/WAOKtNQ5tTI/AAAAAAAAPm8/wzSymVUe9XIafWIpoUsUqikd7r55fN7fwCEw/s640/DSCN5930%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="536" /></a></div><br />The past two weeks I've been thinking about fall chores and slowly starting to prepare for the winter. &nbsp;My bulb orders all arrived this past week, and I've made a little headway in planting bulbs. &nbsp;Soon it will be time to put things away and dig up tender plants. &nbsp;I know you can't tell from this photo, but this caladium leaf is huge! &nbsp;A friend gave me a few bulbs this summer, and I put them in a pot, having no idea how big they would be. &nbsp;I want to make sure to pack these safely away before winter--these are going directly into the shade garden next year, instead of being crammed into tiny pots.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2xYqJOW1xQ/WAOKoyi7a3I/AAAAAAAAPm4/FPFhY5WnjOYVWytYHAHGCtZfz4-IoDgRwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5922%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="576" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R2xYqJOW1xQ/WAOKoyi7a3I/AAAAAAAAPm4/FPFhY5WnjOYVWytYHAHGCtZfz4-IoDgRwCLcB/s640/DSCN5922%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Looking around the garden for a few photos on this breezy, rainy day, I found a few surprises. &nbsp;There are a few new coneflower blooms, and the white phlox have a few fresh blooms as well. &nbsp;But most surprising of all was this--a bloom on my huge lilac bush! &nbsp;This is not a re-blooming lilac, but an old-fashioned shrub. &nbsp;The warm fall must have it confused.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tbBLwEQyzsk/WAOK-qY7n0I/AAAAAAAAPnA/EleWFaKRlx8rviWQTEieaxdprNCY_RwQACLcB/s1600/DSCN5797%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tbBLwEQyzsk/WAOK-qY7n0I/AAAAAAAAPnA/EleWFaKRlx8rviWQTEieaxdprNCY_RwQACLcB/s640/DSCN5797%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="522" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">And, in case you're wondering, yes, I still have zinnias! &nbsp;Some of them are even taller than I am.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-icmNE2LQeGg/WAOLAxiQ_1I/AAAAAAAAPnE/AyDWh1HSX-Ya5A3GP8VPiKbftoZABk5GACLcB/s1600/DSCN5859%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-icmNE2LQeGg/WAOLAxiQ_1I/AAAAAAAAPnE/AyDWh1HSX-Ya5A3GP8VPiKbftoZABk5GACLcB/s640/DSCN5859%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">'Zowie's' are blowing in the wind, but still standing strong, with a few new blooms opening up every few days.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b20C5X9v8uY/WAOLFmxMQ6I/AAAAAAAAPnI/Kdlkx_tB3kIlEcn6vGwdcOUWQ8FsXJc4QCLcB/s1600/DSCN5840%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="564" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b20C5X9v8uY/WAOLFmxMQ6I/AAAAAAAAPnI/Kdlkx_tB3kIlEcn6vGwdcOUWQ8FsXJc4QCLcB/s640/DSCN5840%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It really has been a great year for zinnias, and I had to show them off one more time, because I'm sure this will be the last Bloom Day for them this year. &nbsp;The first frost will bring them to an end, so they remind me every day to enjoy each and every moment of this fall.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QIflqValZ4I/WAOLsuonDNI/AAAAAAAAPnM/kxL48FYudlMb85NYko1IqhSR96ZwfCGLwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5804%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QIflqValZ4I/WAOLsuonDNI/AAAAAAAAPnM/kxL48FYudlMb85NYko1IqhSR96ZwfCGLwCLcB/s640/DSCN5804%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The leaves on the trees have just begun to turn, and with the warm weather we've had for most of this month, it's hard to think of winter just a few weeks away. &nbsp;If you'll pardon the pun, it's been a "berry nice" fall. &nbsp;Viburnum 'Cardinal Candy' above is full of little berries to tempt the birds.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RRNuod7gjuc/WAOLueqIqCI/AAAAAAAAPnQ/UckyG-YetYoWKnAoips60j5fGI7YKsrMACLcB/s1600/DSCN5801%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="630" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RRNuod7gjuc/WAOLueqIqCI/AAAAAAAAPnQ/UckyG-YetYoWKnAoips60j5fGI7YKsrMACLcB/s640/DSCN5801%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />My non-gardening daughter asked me one day if these were blackberries, and I told her she was close, but I wouldn't recommend eating them. &nbsp;I enjoy this stage of blackberry lilies as much as I do their earlier blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Fz2V-pk0vo/WAOLy4Z1GyI/AAAAAAAAPnU/DAu1TNqL4BgfO_zDTCuq4M3DShh2Fy0WwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Fz2V-pk0vo/WAOLy4Z1GyI/AAAAAAAAPnU/DAu1TNqL4BgfO_zDTCuq4M3DShh2Fy0WwCLcB/s640/DSCN5833.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The crabapples are full of fruit this year--enough to keep the birds happy for awhile.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1gDCPaJWMCU/WAOL09GkzNI/AAAAAAAAPnY/P_5VGE8pSUAF2hUWOkAwNGBdkzz-ipwmwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1gDCPaJWMCU/WAOL09GkzNI/AAAAAAAAPnY/P_5VGE8pSUAF2hUWOkAwNGBdkzz-ipwmwCLcB/s640/DSCN5805.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And one of my personal fall favorites--the Beautyberry.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3gcipczMPk/WAOL49p7neI/AAAAAAAAPng/cKxfW1JApvog2_NKWacu_GV6EdxQF5z7QCLcB/s1600/DSCN5864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o3gcipczMPk/WAOL49p7neI/AAAAAAAAPng/cKxfW1JApvog2_NKWacu_GV6EdxQF5z7QCLcB/s640/DSCN5864.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The weatherman has promised warm weather through the end of the month. &nbsp;I certainly hope he's right, not only to finish all my fall chores, but also to enjoy the remaining beauty of the garden for as long as I can. &nbsp;I hope you are enjoying Autumn as well!<br /><br /><br />To see what else is blooming around the world on this mid-October day, be sure to visit our hostess <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens.</a>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-16340611534561698122016-09-26T12:41:00.000-05:002016-09-26T12:41:35.453-05:00Lessons Learned From the Back PorchThe autumnal equinox arrived this past Thursday without much fanfare. &nbsp;The weatherman on the local TV station talked about it, of course, but then apologized for the continuing heat in the forecast. &nbsp;I did go out and buy some pansies and a few other fall annuals to replace the awful-looking dead petunias next to my front door, but &nbsp;I didn't get carried away. &nbsp;It's hard to think of pumpkins and mums when it's 90 degrees outside.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YPfMlIDNMC8/V-hJ3xYGZTI/AAAAAAAAPj0/NasPrrx-3vEIPWkf15kQDPSuiTh-j83ggCLcB/s1600/DSCN5705%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YPfMlIDNMC8/V-hJ3xYGZTI/AAAAAAAAPj0/NasPrrx-3vEIPWkf15kQDPSuiTh-j83ggCLcB/s640/DSCN5705%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The asters and goldenrod apparently got the notice that it is autumn.</td></tr></tbody></table>By the time I get this posted, however, the weather is supposed to change, with more reasonable temperatures in the 70's this week, and I won't have anything to complain about anymore--ha! &nbsp;While I wait for those welcome cooler days, it's a good time to sit down and reflect on the past season for <a href="http://www.plantpostings.com/">Beth's </a>seasonal meme "Lessons Learned in the Garden."<br /><br />While I'm sure I learned many new things this past season, my mind is drawing a blank. &nbsp;The problem is that by mid-July, I lost all my motivation for serious gardening. &nbsp;By that time I was tired of constantly pulling weeds: the consistent rain this season was a blessing, but at the same time it meant the weeds flourished, too. &nbsp;After an hour or two of weeding or trimming or picking green beans, the sweat was rolling into my eyes, and I gave up. &nbsp;I guess that means I've learned that I am a fair-weather gardener--if it's hot and buggy, I'm staying indoors.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xEkXHyIalqw/V-kceMA_eDI/AAAAAAAAPkE/nskGoMtdUJk9ICfJfPwugxGI-mESqw2BACLcB/s1600/DSCN4300%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xEkXHyIalqw/V-kceMA_eDI/AAAAAAAAPkE/nskGoMtdUJk9ICfJfPwugxGI-mESqw2BACLcB/s640/DSCN4300%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />Instead of doing much actual garden work for the past two months, I have spent a lot of time on my front porch noting all that has to be done and making plans for those perfect "somedays" when the temps are are in the 70's, the bugs have stopped biting, and I'm full of energy. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kh0wpOhzpB8/V-f-Q6Z3QPI/AAAAAAAAPi0/b44sf5L2E380xjsShjEdTaAqqYsecKLtgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kh0wpOhzpB8/V-f-Q6Z3QPI/AAAAAAAAPi0/b44sf5L2E380xjsShjEdTaAqqYsecKLtgCLcB/s640/DSCN4582.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />From my shady perch on the porch swing, I can easily see the coneflowers when they're in full bloom and get a partial view of the lily bed and even the arbor bed beyond that.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-spvlBvubj3s/V-gK09Wp69I/AAAAAAAAPjc/wbUWHfrgAIAlwczSzZCjDXINi2nkFx38gCEw/s1600/DSCN5694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-spvlBvubj3s/V-gK09Wp69I/AAAAAAAAPjc/wbUWHfrgAIAlwczSzZCjDXINi2nkFx38gCEw/s640/DSCN5694.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If I stand up and crane my neck a little, I can even see parts of the shade garden as well. &nbsp;The best part about this viewing at a distance is that I don't really see the weeds or the deadheading that needs to be done, and I can just relax and procrastinate to my heart's content.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJtSVd_bo88/V-gLOK8y4aI/AAAAAAAAPjg/rgcXeqtfHPYhVzLn4lSOBaUDBlyPd84LgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5689%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJtSVd_bo88/V-gLOK8y4aI/AAAAAAAAPjg/rgcXeqtfHPYhVzLn4lSOBaUDBlyPd84LgCLcB/s640/DSCN5689%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />With several planters on or near the front porch, I have much to enjoy close-up as well, such as this hibiscus. &nbsp;Fortunately, the only upkeep these planters require is frequent watering, which I do pretty faithfully since it doesn't mean working up a sweat.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjT7M3l__Hg/V-gAEcXlLaI/AAAAAAAAPjA/srNM_mxe_7YrQT5tv4m5_YcsrzzXoU-tgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4617%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="586" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cjT7M3l__Hg/V-gAEcXlLaI/AAAAAAAAPjA/srNM_mxe_7YrQT5tv4m5_YcsrzzXoU-tgCLcB/s640/DSCN4617%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Besides looking at what is blooming, my place on the porch gives me a great vantage point for watching all the visitors to my garden. &nbsp;When the coneflowers bloom, the nearby sidewalk garden is alive with butterflies. &nbsp;And with only a few short steps, I can get up close to observe and photograph them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OaV09sUn1gY/V-gALygAO8I/AAAAAAAAPjE/b9bFI3TVj9IBt9PoFpGwmXG4kJ3FBmmqgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5137%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OaV09sUn1gY/V-gALygAO8I/AAAAAAAAPjE/b9bFI3TVj9IBt9PoFpGwmXG4kJ3FBmmqgCLcB/s640/DSCN5137%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Once the coneflowers have faded, the butterflies are replaced by the goldfinches who are constantly feeding on their seedheads. &nbsp;From the porch's front step I can zoom out with the camera to get a photo if I'm lucky.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUUZWP1zllk/V-kf-VvGUfI/AAAAAAAAPkQ/Fi-Fa37OPXshmTIYRZUcFkQVW0AUYZBrwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TUUZWP1zllk/V-kf-VvGUfI/AAAAAAAAPkQ/Fi-Fa37OPXshmTIYRZUcFkQVW0AUYZBrwCLcB/s640/DSCN5516%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The porch gives me a great vantage point, too, for observing all kinds of bird activity throughout the seasons besides the goldfinches, from hawks swooping through the air looking for prey to cardinals feasting on the tiny crabapples. &nbsp;But my favorite bird activity is only a few feet away as the hummingbirds visit the feeder just beyond the swing. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0YSNB1orHWc/V-gA3y8sRcI/AAAAAAAAPjI/CJpHRy5WjHIvNvPxW8xnk3O6-BCR0TtpwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5658%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="536" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0YSNB1orHWc/V-gA3y8sRcI/AAAAAAAAPjI/CJpHRy5WjHIvNvPxW8xnk3O6-BCR0TtpwCLcB/s640/DSCN5658%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I love watching them hover in the air and then battle each other for rights to the feeder. &nbsp;And if I happen to have my camera and am very, very quick, I might just get lucky enough to get one decent photo of them all summer feeding at one of their favorites, the 'Black and Blue' Salvia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZcF2byhBMM/V-gK0Tzp2zI/AAAAAAAAPjY/wnUvssR1khg3fZOZBgdS-4fZPJu7v-GgACLcB/s1600/DSCN5679%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RZcF2byhBMM/V-gK0Tzp2zI/AAAAAAAAPjY/wnUvssR1khg3fZOZBgdS-4fZPJu7v-GgACLcB/s640/DSCN5679%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Sometimes I don't even have to look very far as bees visit the planters on the porch or even more fascinating creatures come for a short while. &nbsp;Yes, you never know who will come to visit!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wku8-QIX43c/V-ki_uYSiWI/AAAAAAAAPkg/lECFE-12bOcuBVJxDTN1M5OFPdWeoBQzwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4580.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wku8-QIX43c/V-ki_uYSiWI/AAAAAAAAPkg/lECFE-12bOcuBVJxDTN1M5OFPdWeoBQzwCLcB/s640/DSCN4580.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiny syrphid flies are just one of the many pollinating insects to be found in the garden.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Looking through all these photos, I am reminded that I have learned another lesson this summer--I have learned much more about pollinators. &nbsp;I took a few hours' training to become a "Pollinator Pocket" presenter, a program developed by our local Extension Office. &nbsp;I learned so much about different insects and other pollinators and their life cycles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5BwEZJBrXGY/V-ktSXS9_OI/AAAAAAAAPkw/HkbPNSZvUkANoZyCLqnQ8rYjaDiEUky3wCLcB/s1600/DSCN5701%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5BwEZJBrXGY/V-ktSXS9_OI/AAAAAAAAPkw/HkbPNSZvUkANoZyCLqnQ8rYjaDiEUky3wCLcB/s640/DSCN5701%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I also learned more about the needs of these different pollinators, including plants that will help to feed them. &nbsp;I already knew that asters and other late-blooming plants provide a valuable food source in the fall. &nbsp;But a local beekeeper at the workshop reminded everyone that bees need food in the early spring as well, and he encouraged us all to plant more crocuses because they are one of the few sources of food very early in the spring. &nbsp;You can be sure when I placed my bulb orders this past week that I ordered plenty of crocuses!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WU24LIngsjI/V-kgNbyZq0I/AAAAAAAAPkc/zoUHXrLs9rgJFSxUvZDReYJHiZdzVJAxgCEw/s1600/DSCN4748%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WU24LIngsjI/V-kgNbyZq0I/AAAAAAAAPkc/zoUHXrLs9rgJFSxUvZDReYJHiZdzVJAxgCEw/s640/DSCN4748%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not sure what type of bumble this big guy is.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Earlier in the summer I also attended a talk by Dr. Sydney Cameron, an entomologist specializing in bumblebees, on the rare Rusty-patched Bumblebee <i>Bombus affinis</i>. &nbsp;We watched a short but fascinating documentary on this bee called "A Ghost in the Making," which you can find<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7TF8PvAdnE"> here </a>on YouTube. &nbsp;The rusty-patched bumblebee was once very common in parts of the U.S., but for reasons unknown its numbers have dwindled, and it is now being considered as an endangered species. <br /><br />This talk inspired me to look more closely at the bumblebees in my own garden, and while I can't identify them by type, I know that my visitors are the much more common species normally seen throughout this area. &nbsp;Still, I am searching for that elusive rusty-patched bumblebee!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Srmi_zdM7-8/V-kwyISrgOI/AAAAAAAAPk8/zyyPpeeEwHAW9vibAh5KiDu0wWjU2NeHQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Srmi_zdM7-8/V-kwyISrgOI/AAAAAAAAPk8/zyyPpeeEwHAW9vibAh5KiDu0wWjU2NeHQCLcB/s640/DSCN5471.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda of <a href="http://eachlittleworld.typepad.com/">Each Little World a</a>nd Lisa of <a href="http://www.greenbowgardens.blogspot.com/">Greenbow </a>enjoy chatting with Susan.</td></tr></tbody></table>One of the places where this rare bumblebee has been spotted in recent years is at the University of Wisconsin Arboretum. &nbsp;On a visit to Madison earlier this month to meet up with a few fellow bloggers, &nbsp;Beth introduced us to Susan Carpenter, Native Plant Gardener at the Arboretum. &nbsp;As she was talking about her work here, she happened to bring up the rusty-patched bumblebee and mentioned that part of the film I had seen was filmed at the Arboretum. &nbsp;Talk about coincidence!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-piZNUTuyALE/V-kw1FZdH3I/AAAAAAAAPlA/G4Bm5cflGxQesZdtl5Gxnk8R93Y90WfqwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5466.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-piZNUTuyALE/V-kw1FZdH3I/AAAAAAAAPlA/G4Bm5cflGxQesZdtl5Gxnk8R93Y90WfqwCLcB/s640/DSCN5466.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We didn't find any rusty-patched bumblebees on this day, but we did see many other species, and Susan mentioned that one of their favorite plants this time of year is the native thistle. <br /><br />Looking back, I realize that maybe I did learn more this summer than I realized. &nbsp;I know I'm going to be more conscious of pollinators and do what I can to increase their numbers in my garden. &nbsp;And while I've enjoyed the past two months on the porch, this morning is much cooler and pleasant, so it's time to get off that swing and get to work!<br /><br /><br />For more reflections on lessons learned in the garden this past season, be sure to stop by Beth's at <a href="http://www.plantpostings.blogspot.com/">Plant Postings.</a>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-9932786057723414202016-09-15T12:58:00.004-05:002016-09-15T16:49:49.485-05:00GBBD: Summer's EndSummer is winding down, and I, for one, will be happy to have an end to the relentless heat of this past season. &nbsp;The days are getting shorter, and on some days you can feel a crispness in the air, the first hints of autumn approaching.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8gGXJ89ET0/V9qpn10p2SI/AAAAAAAAPgA/bTUHia-8a3IMKL-_FmzY76ClcUt8PdwlgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5611%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--8gGXJ89ET0/V9qpn10p2SI/AAAAAAAAPgA/bTUHia-8a3IMKL-_FmzY76ClcUt8PdwlgCLcB/s640/DSCN5611%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While I will miss the explosion of color that was summer in my garden, there is still much to enjoy about the garden. &nbsp;A few coneflowers still bloom here and there, but most are now dried seedheads, a tasty treat for all the goldfinches.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5J7ojQoquls/V9q4m4DPQHI/AAAAAAAAPgU/6uRHGwvjDXo7FbFx2_uoq993Lapll633ACLcB/s1600/DSCN5630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5J7ojQoquls/V9q4m4DPQHI/AAAAAAAAPgU/6uRHGwvjDXo7FbFx2_uoq993Lapll633ACLcB/s640/DSCN5630.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Blackberry lilies are no longer blooming, but their seedheads are every bit as delightful to look at.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JFh_n80sKfk/V9qp3JMrs_I/AAAAAAAAPgE/BKLaxDLX87Mi-fq1B5p4KQj0K2lii904QCLcB/s1600/DSCN5595.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JFh_n80sKfk/V9qp3JMrs_I/AAAAAAAAPgE/BKLaxDLX87Mi-fq1B5p4KQj0K2lii904QCLcB/s640/DSCN5595.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Walking around the garden, one can see that not everything has finished blooming, however. &nbsp;The 'Limelight' Hydrangea is in all its fall glory, reaching up to the rooftop once again, despite a pretty good pruning this spring.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acsqZUikF2w/V9qp5zmMWeI/AAAAAAAAPgI/rCLrdoX-DXsv9UYVzGk8zdxnlZL4gS0rwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5597.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acsqZUikF2w/V9qp5zmMWeI/AAAAAAAAPgI/rCLrdoX-DXsv9UYVzGk8zdxnlZL4gS0rwCLcB/s640/DSCN5597.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I just love these big blooms!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RjEUGTg5h3o/V9rTC5UC6rI/AAAAAAAAPiA/sejNLdO1tIkMYaLUwIAdzuzeyJBR9T6sACLcB/s1600/DSCN5604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RjEUGTg5h3o/V9rTC5UC6rI/AAAAAAAAPiA/sejNLdO1tIkMYaLUwIAdzuzeyJBR9T6sACLcB/s640/DSCN5604.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nearby, the Turtleheads are also blooming.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WqYy3SqgY8Y/V9qo9KViu4I/AAAAAAAAPf0/ZpPu4YWaePEW6YPEnvmF8MJswcgkI70gQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5598%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WqYy3SqgY8Y/V9qo9KViu4I/AAAAAAAAPf0/ZpPu4YWaePEW6YPEnvmF8MJswcgkI70gQCLcB/s640/DSCN5598%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="536" /></a></div><br />Also in the shade garden, the hardy begonia (name forgotten) is also blooming. &nbsp;I bought this plant for its foliage and was so happy it survived the winter here, so the tiny blooms are a bonus surprise.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwjgONjDUo8/V9qpD75h4eI/AAAAAAAAPf8/u0zrMzwc8E4Srbohc79-89zN3m_TIWdJQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwjgONjDUo8/V9qpD75h4eI/AAAAAAAAPf8/u0zrMzwc8E4Srbohc79-89zN3m_TIWdJQCLcB/s640/DSCN5606.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />It pays to looks closely or you will miss some other surprises as well. &nbsp;Apparently, this little gnome thought I needed some help weeding (and yes, I do). &nbsp;I have no idea where this little rake came from--garden fairies, perhaps??<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ruXd57Ab5YA/V9q4-JTd51I/AAAAAAAAPgY/PvGEHg5FTdUwiB5akj1aB8CMbULFhykJwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ruXd57Ab5YA/V9q4-JTd51I/AAAAAAAAPgY/PvGEHg5FTdUwiB5akj1aB8CMbULFhykJwCLcB/s640/DSCN5588.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In the sidewalk garden, 'Senorita Rosalita' Cleome is flourishing. &nbsp;I've planted this annual in pots the past two years, and it's never done well. &nbsp;Obviously, it likes being planted in the ground much better--and all the rain this summer no doubt helped as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty0-rmmNPCc/V9q5BbBawRI/AAAAAAAAPgc/4kUh_3FFbggIvpC0t41n86NukhaUYm9KACLcB/s1600/DSCN5585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ty0-rmmNPCc/V9q5BbBawRI/AAAAAAAAPgc/4kUh_3FFbggIvpC0t41n86NukhaUYm9KACLcB/s640/DSCN5585.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Lavender is beginning to bloom again. &nbsp;This is the first year I've had success with lavender surviving the winter, and I hope it continues to do well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LZSUgiZBLEg/V9q5n-H2InI/AAAAAAAAPgg/zKFjvDFlyywm3ll-AY3PJcDIH0PrX6gXACLcB/s1600/DSCN5617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LZSUgiZBLEg/V9q5n-H2InI/AAAAAAAAPgg/zKFjvDFlyywm3ll-AY3PJcDIH0PrX6gXACLcB/s640/DSCN5617.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">In the Arbor Bed, the berries on the Beautyberry are beginning to turn.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NaWvY4h7r2Y/V9q5ruMMFLI/AAAAAAAAPgk/0Jucl0BpiJcXg7XADsN_lAwYo9KRyug9wCLcB/s1600/DSCN5621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NaWvY4h7r2Y/V9q5ruMMFLI/AAAAAAAAPgk/0Jucl0BpiJcXg7XADsN_lAwYo9KRyug9wCLcB/s640/DSCN5621.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Fall is the time for grasses to really shine, and 'Morning Light' Miscanthus is putting on quite a show.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cuN_oucIbUQ/V9q8Kpq6oLI/AAAAAAAAPg0/LHfxo5kRoPEbzPQATSrm3OmU8MZPybntgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cuN_oucIbUQ/V9q8Kpq6oLI/AAAAAAAAPg0/LHfxo5kRoPEbzPQATSrm3OmU8MZPybntgCLcB/s640/DSCN5623.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Goldenrod is also popping up everywhere. &nbsp;I usually pull most of it from the Arbor Bed, but I missed this one, and I think it complements the zinnias nicely. &nbsp;More on those zinnias later...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hg2g6aacKw0/V9q7SMfir8I/AAAAAAAAPgs/F-xOYvkdngM4k_6djWNV-43BUtZa8O3CgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5186%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hg2g6aacKw0/V9q7SMfir8I/AAAAAAAAPgs/F-xOYvkdngM4k_6djWNV-43BUtZa8O3CgCLcB/s640/DSCN5186%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">In the little Butterfly Garden, the sneezeweed <i>Helenium 'Autumnale' </i>has been blooming</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;for several weeks.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ec5QBN7uG8k/V9q7XzgKz4I/AAAAAAAAPgw/zAujcaHMqSYOG_Rr0qDHeaeuUkmz7f04ACLcB/s1600/DSCN5633%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ec5QBN7uG8k/V9q7XzgKz4I/AAAAAAAAPgw/zAujcaHMqSYOG_Rr0qDHeaeuUkmz7f04ACLcB/s640/DSCN5633%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="536" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">And, of course, the Obedient Plant is making its annual appearance. &nbsp;A few asters are just beginning to bloom, and soon the butterfly garden will be full of asters and goldenrod as well.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2lGuQWFLFbo/V9q8PQJjRbI/AAAAAAAAPg4/6dr2hHLxqO4K2HlGro7cOUAGjMv_gkGuACEw/s1600/DSCN5614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2lGuQWFLFbo/V9q8PQJjRbI/AAAAAAAAPg4/6dr2hHLxqO4K2HlGro7cOUAGjMv_gkGuACEw/s640/DSCN5614.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />So many of my container plantings are looking pretty sad these days. &nbsp;Coleus and begonias are still looking great, but the petunias are pretty pathetic--time to hit the local nursery for some new cool-weather annuals. &nbsp;However, there are other annuals planted in the garden that are doing very well, including one of my all-time favorites 'Victoria Blue' Salvia.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDK9zLON6DI/V9q88fPgAUI/AAAAAAAAPhA/Zl_pRFrEs34oYa0xAXIDuT-SCTRX_zIsQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDK9zLON6DI/V9q88fPgAUI/AAAAAAAAPhA/Zl_pRFrEs34oYa0xAXIDuT-SCTRX_zIsQCLcB/s640/DSCN5645.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The Lantana are also doing well and finally spreading out. &nbsp;The only problem this year is that they are often hidden by some taller volunteers, like the <i>Rudbeckia Triloba</i>.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPGMTFIKb7w/V9q8_kHjflI/AAAAAAAAPhE/3r9N7f8MWUwgPFrD7wWIDgS_AHGxccCRwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5619.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DPGMTFIKb7w/V9q8_kHjflI/AAAAAAAAPhE/3r9N7f8MWUwgPFrD7wWIDgS_AHGxccCRwCLcB/s640/DSCN5619.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A few Cosmos are also finally blooming, though not nearly as many as I had hoped.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gKYrPKqs35c/V9q9DHN5-yI/AAAAAAAAPhI/rk734QmwiDQUOSpPQFubeq_LYEwNA012ACLcB/s1600/DSCN5628%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gKYrPKqs35c/V9q9DHN5-yI/AAAAAAAAPhI/rk734QmwiDQUOSpPQFubeq_LYEwNA012ACLcB/s640/DSCN5628%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />A new annual I planted this year is finally blooming as well--<i>Tithonia,</i> or Mexican Sunflower. &nbsp;I've admired these bright orange blooms on<a href="http://www.gardeninacity.wordpress.com/"> Jason's </a>blog for several years, so I finally started some seeds this spring. &nbsp;The only problem is that I didn't realize how tall they would get! &nbsp;Next year I'll find a better spot for these 4-6' pollinator magnets.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--se8z-Pbh-8/V9q9G9grM1I/AAAAAAAAPhM/XzyJOoE5NSwyz9Ozc73RclIBRCI3I9_PwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--se8z-Pbh-8/V9q9G9grM1I/AAAAAAAAPhM/XzyJOoE5NSwyz9Ozc73RclIBRCI3I9_PwCLcB/s640/DSCN5640.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Also in the Arbor Bed, Nicotania is still blooming here and there. &nbsp;These are all volunteers--from seeds planted over five years ago! &nbsp;I started to pull most of these out one day, until I noticed a hummingbird moth sipping nectar from them. &nbsp;Of course, I didn't have my camera handy, but I was mesmerized by this creature and its long proboscis. &nbsp;I haven't seen it in a couple of weeks, but I'm leaving the Nicotania for now, just in case it returns.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkAqjBw42g4/V9rKY6hh_EI/AAAAAAAAPhg/X8CiKhrIq1cgeYGsFn2vXiCz6MNt4D9JwCLcB/s1600/DSCN5505%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkAqjBw42g4/V9rKY6hh_EI/AAAAAAAAPhg/X8CiKhrIq1cgeYGsFn2vXiCz6MNt4D9JwCLcB/s640/DSCN5505%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Of all the late annuals, though, the most colorful and most abundant in my garden are the zinnias. These old-fashioned favorites have to be one of the easiest annuals to grow. &nbsp;I direct sowed seeds from <a href="http://www.reneesgarden.com/">Renee's Garden</a> and<a href="http://www.botanicalinterests.com/"> Botanical Interests </a>(though which ones are which, I don't remember), &nbsp;and some of them have grown to 4 1/2 feet tall. &nbsp;Though only pink ones are shown here, there are blooms in orange, reds, and purples as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPyTmqCwlTI/V9rKnGhaqXI/AAAAAAAAPho/XnNtKGJvoGo0sz2jB7XQybaS9kMmr5K4QCEw/s1600/DSCN5503%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="522" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LPyTmqCwlTI/V9rKnGhaqXI/AAAAAAAAPho/XnNtKGJvoGo0sz2jB7XQybaS9kMmr5K4QCEw/s640/DSCN5503%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">When it comes to attracting butterflies, you can't beat zinnias. &nbsp;And although they aren't particular, the pollinators do seem to love my 'Zowie Yellow Flame' zinnias in particular.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a0k5rtGSZqY/V9rKg9XB58I/AAAAAAAAPhk/8_WNKIccXz4aUBqQCUfIZy558VSs4tF0QCLcB/s1600/DSCN5488%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="514" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a0k5rtGSZqY/V9rKg9XB58I/AAAAAAAAPhk/8_WNKIccXz4aUBqQCUfIZy558VSs4tF0QCLcB/s640/DSCN5488%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">On a recent afternoon, the 'Zowie's' were covered with all kinds of butterflies.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wAPBoCee438/V9rKWKuPOrI/AAAAAAAAPhc/JhqVui4lCD0P3-TVpAErg5C_movwsHvdgCEw/s1600/DSCN5514%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wAPBoCee438/V9rKWKuPOrI/AAAAAAAAPhc/JhqVui4lCD0P3-TVpAErg5C_movwsHvdgCEw/s640/DSCN5514%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The colors of the 'Zowie's' are almost a perfect match for Monarchs,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">but Swallowtails make a nice contrast, too.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G2HL2722CVM/V9rKtFQdX0I/AAAAAAAAPhs/quQmqKeArIsgGbrFNxZZn0IEy3uOTtBwACLcB/s1600/DSCN5500%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G2HL2722CVM/V9rKtFQdX0I/AAAAAAAAPhs/quQmqKeArIsgGbrFNxZZn0IEy3uOTtBwACLcB/s640/DSCN5500%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">It's a good thing I planted lots of these zinnias this year, enough for a crowd!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks to <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens</a> for hosting this monthly meeting of Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day and giving me the incentive to keep a monthly record of what is blooming in my garden. &nbsp;</div><br />Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-81648262044420328572016-08-16T21:49:00.002-05:002016-08-16T21:49:42.859-05:00Hazy, Lazy Days of Summer: GBBD AugustThere is a reason they call these the dog days of summer. For the past month, we have been living under a "heat dome" with so much heat and humidity that even my dogs don't want to go outside during the heat of the day. &nbsp;I'm a wimp when it comes to heat, too, so about the only gardening I've done lately is pick green beans in the early morning or just before dusk and drag around the hoses to keep everything watered. For at least the past two weeks we haven't had more than a drop of rain, so keeping everything alive under the blistering sun has been my main priority.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZMStGXGORg/V7G8ICmd2pI/AAAAAAAAPas/sXTGd-1sTLgmZrDpKj0pXjidZYIkhBSUACEw/s1600/DSCN5111%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="532" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZMStGXGORg/V7G8ICmd2pI/AAAAAAAAPas/sXTGd-1sTLgmZrDpKj0pXjidZYIkhBSUACEw/s640/DSCN5111%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Until today, that is. &nbsp;The rain started last night, and by early Monday evening we had received almost three inches of welcome rain. My thirsty garden is so happy! &nbsp;The late-blooming hostas--<i>Hosta plantaginea,</i> I think--are soaking up every drop.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_6JTJ1wsSFA/V7G8L2ryWuI/AAAAAAAAPaw/FCh2Uha5-O4RAgXbuBaLeXd55oKW4jHBACEw/s1600/DSCN5114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_6JTJ1wsSFA/V7G8L2ryWuI/AAAAAAAAPaw/FCh2Uha5-O4RAgXbuBaLeXd55oKW4jHBACEw/s640/DSCN5114.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Some of the hostas in the shade garden are beginning to turn a bit brown around the edges, but for the most part, everything is still looking lush and green.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHLz500TrIo/V7G8NZGvHFI/AAAAAAAAPa0/AgD_P92AGh44n4ex_cqzm_NCU7S4ZyLGwCEw/s1600/DSCN5110%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="556" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHLz500TrIo/V7G8NZGvHFI/AAAAAAAAPa0/AgD_P92AGh44n4ex_cqzm_NCU7S4ZyLGwCEw/s640/DSCN5110%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The wild colors of July have pretty much faded away, but there are a few new blooms here and there. &nbsp;The new Ligularia 'Desdemona' is putting out quite a few blooms in its first year in my garden. &nbsp;I really think I ought to add an 'Othello' to go with her, don't you?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WVuv33G6_Uk/V7G8RSlb_HI/AAAAAAAAPa4/_cBfudacYW0BcnvCFyyb2aZ-fVJaYwDswCEw/s1600/DSCN5105%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="586" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WVuv33G6_Uk/V7G8RSlb_HI/AAAAAAAAPa4/_cBfudacYW0BcnvCFyyb2aZ-fVJaYwDswCEw/s640/DSCN5105%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The dark red coleuses I like to put in pots in front of the house are getting taller and taller.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bFot5Pz3wM/V7G9lfN-5LI/AAAAAAAAPbQ/0K3_b6LJ0bcktep_wpYw1vSIq465NuNGQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bFot5Pz3wM/V7G9lfN-5LI/AAAAAAAAPbQ/0K3_b6LJ0bcktep_wpYw1vSIq465NuNGQCLcB/s640/DSCN5077.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The elephant ears in my new huge pot have done well, too,&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">in spite of the lack of rain the last few weeks.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e0cSJY4Dye0/V7G9oNxqP5I/AAAAAAAAPbU/xFW3r3AEwKI5AM83kwfLwWKr5ZEBeQ09gCLcB/s1600/DSCN5061%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e0cSJY4Dye0/V7G9oNxqP5I/AAAAAAAAPbU/xFW3r3AEwKI5AM83kwfLwWKr5ZEBeQ09gCLcB/s640/DSCN5061%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="616" /></a></div><br />The surprise lilies or naked ladies, whatever term you prefer, are done now, but a week ago they were in all their glory. &nbsp;I still see many blooming all around town.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nTVeJAwKuiI/V7G-ZMPbi6I/AAAAAAAAPbc/uymXJjcaP_gSLT7_lRwAfqP0itpjr2h5wCEw/s1600/DSCN5066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nTVeJAwKuiI/V7G-ZMPbi6I/AAAAAAAAPbc/uymXJjcaP_gSLT7_lRwAfqP0itpjr2h5wCEw/s640/DSCN5066.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><i>Rudbeckia triloba,</i> or Brown-eyed Susans, are adding some much needed color to the Lily bed. &nbsp;Even though I thought I had dug most of them out this spring, a couple seedlings managed to hide from the spade.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lvWsmynZJdg/V7G-zK10BtI/AAAAAAAAPbk/yn4xbNA9hlIeEz-8blfM9nNo_qPUAWp7wCLcB/s1600/DSCN5025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lvWsmynZJdg/V7G-zK10BtI/AAAAAAAAPbk/yn4xbNA9hlIeEz-8blfM9nNo_qPUAWp7wCLcB/s640/DSCN5025.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The 'Vanilla Strawberry' Hydrangea has been loaded with blooms this year. &nbsp;I only wish the pink petals would last a little longer: I took this picture a week ago, and now they're turning more vanilla-chocolate.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6R-wlCVOFmI/V7G-0wjc7jI/AAAAAAAAPbo/HcOGfVFbMes2YDYB3qovYhw3624FGuYIQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5036%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6R-wlCVOFmI/V7G-0wjc7jI/AAAAAAAAPbo/HcOGfVFbMes2YDYB3qovYhw3624FGuYIQCLcB/s640/DSCN5036%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Although the daylilies have been finished for awhile except for a few re-bloomers, this late daylily just began to bloom. &nbsp;'Autumn Minaret' is a tall lily, a good pairing with 'Challenger,' which is still blooming, too.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lOn5Nz3bjk/V7G-8ZU4z2I/AAAAAAAAPbw/T7UmrjC56DkrayJt28LdCAPNv4kw6taswCLcB/s1600/DSCN5030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9lOn5Nz3bjk/V7G-8ZU4z2I/AAAAAAAAPbw/T7UmrjC56DkrayJt28LdCAPNv4kw6taswCLcB/s640/DSCN5030.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Finally, some of the seeds I direct sowed in late spring are finally starting to bloom. &nbsp;'Knee High Sonata' Cosmos is just starting. &nbsp;I've been disappointed, though, that I haven't seen a sign of the taller cosmos I planted.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxCca0nG3fw/V7G--8kQpxI/AAAAAAAAPb0/sgv2OPR9gHQ6XxG6KewUZk474J9VNjDewCLcB/s1600/DSCN5033%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="484" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WxCca0nG3fw/V7G--8kQpxI/AAAAAAAAPb0/sgv2OPR9gHQ6XxG6KewUZk474J9VNjDewCLcB/s640/DSCN5033%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Zinnias are also blooming in several places. &nbsp;You can't go wrong with these old-fashioned favorites.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9vBUrEQBFw/V7G_seHaSmI/AAAAAAAAPb8/APydfcRqr9MRQww7ZuO2TuqghBC8XidLQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4985%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9vBUrEQBFw/V7G_seHaSmI/AAAAAAAAPb8/APydfcRqr9MRQww7ZuO2TuqghBC8XidLQCLcB/s640/DSCN4985%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And speaking of zinnias, my very favorite 'Zowie Yellow Flame' has not disappointed me. &nbsp;I had intended to get a better photo, but the rain kept me from going outside with my camera today. &nbsp;But I'm sure you'll see more of these next month:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U9aPSQllXDk/V7HAbVbW7xI/AAAAAAAAPcE/wVo-va53fFwIh5PJrvCXALQn-c3zqTgoQCLcB/s1600/DSCN5093%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="538" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U9aPSQllXDk/V7HAbVbW7xI/AAAAAAAAPcE/wVo-va53fFwIh5PJrvCXALQn-c3zqTgoQCLcB/s640/DSCN5093%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Here's a better photo I took last week while watering at the Nursing Home Garden. &nbsp;I've raved so much about these 'Zowie's' that I have convinced my cohorts who volunteer with me to plant them here as well. &nbsp;They really are butterfly magnets!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYEBThR3pjY/V7HAeFsoWJI/AAAAAAAAPcI/ON6DrLza5qYhawNxQO8yFbA-hrBSfc_pACLcB/s1600/DSCN5097%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYEBThR3pjY/V7HAeFsoWJI/AAAAAAAAPcI/ON6DrLza5qYhawNxQO8yFbA-hrBSfc_pACLcB/s640/DSCN5097%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another photo from the Nursing Home garden could have been taken in my garden as well--the bumblebees love Russian Sage.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5hhA7CGmhPs/V7G7jkA8IJI/AAAAAAAAPao/O_7N8ZII6_U-Bn8qfePipmJuQkfE-zx2gCLcB/s1600/DSCN5085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5hhA7CGmhPs/V7G7jkA8IJI/AAAAAAAAPao/O_7N8ZII6_U-Bn8qfePipmJuQkfE-zx2gCLcB/s640/DSCN5085.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While I haven't been doing much work in my own garden, I have been enjoying watching the visitors the past few weeks. &nbsp;This Tiger Swallowtail was a blur of fluttering wings as it enjoyed the verbena in a container.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sUgkZ4Ymv1g/V7G87U2bTKI/AAAAAAAAPbE/xczbaC_twssRM2nr3Caq2PghFnNc35JqgCLcB/s1600/DSCN5128%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="588" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sUgkZ4Ymv1g/V7G87U2bTKI/AAAAAAAAPbE/xczbaC_twssRM2nr3Caq2PghFnNc35JqgCLcB/s640/DSCN5128%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />And, of course, my usual visitors as I sit on the front porch. &nbsp;I could watch them forever as they dance and dive through the air--occasionally buzzing my head as they zoom to the feeder.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ1RUYCRfus/V7G-dgmYCMI/AAAAAAAAPbg/fAJIlC0TiQEPinztfiPEm1_1MzkgTs-5ACLcB/s1600/DSCN5041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZ1RUYCRfus/V7G-dgmYCMI/AAAAAAAAPbg/fAJIlC0TiQEPinztfiPEm1_1MzkgTs-5ACLcB/s640/DSCN5041.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">We have had so many moths lately, especially at night, that they're rather annoying.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;I thought this daytime visitor was rather pretty, however.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vDw4cuAaSKA/V7G89dwdlYI/AAAAAAAAPbI/FZYhSTURoLEJnDV5Kq5dKMdZj5DsOwMfACLcB/s1600/DSCN5137%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vDw4cuAaSKA/V7G89dwdlYI/AAAAAAAAPbI/FZYhSTURoLEJnDV5Kq5dKMdZj5DsOwMfACLcB/s640/DSCN5137%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The coneflowers I've pictured for the last month or more are finally fading away. &nbsp;Just as I was contemplating cutting back some of them the goldfinches arrived. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--oCZiy_y_so/V7G8_dpNOxI/AAAAAAAAPbM/ZrhY8EKchnYa0XFh1pLTP20NDVTRJr0zACLcB/s1600/DSCN5140%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--oCZiy_y_so/V7G8_dpNOxI/AAAAAAAAPbM/ZrhY8EKchnYa0XFh1pLTP20NDVTRJr0zACLcB/s640/DSCN5140%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Needless to say, the coneflowers won't be cut down any time soon.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Tomorrow is the first day of school for most children in the area, the symbolic end of summer even though there is still a month or more of summer left. &nbsp;Soon it will be time to start thinking about fall chores and ordering bulbs for the spring. &nbsp;For now, though, I am enjoying the last blooms of summer.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is hosted the 15th of every month by <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens. </a>&nbsp;Thanks, Carol!</div>Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-42595566178061409722016-07-31T13:49:00.001-05:002016-07-31T13:49:36.510-05:00Wildflower Wednesday on a SundayIt's been a long time since I've participated in <a href="http://www.clayandlimestone.blogspot.com/">Wildflower Wednesday,</a> almost a year in fact. But that doesn't mean I don't enjoy reading and learning about all the native plants that <a href="http://www.clayandlimestone.blogspot.com/">Gail </a>and others post each month. &nbsp;Actually, native plants and their importance to pollinators have been on my mind a lot this summer. &nbsp;Last week I attended a workshop on "Pollinator Pockets," a program developed by our local Master Naturalists and Master Gardener programs to educate the community and encourage people to plant more pollinator-friendly plants. &nbsp;It's a great program, and now I am officially trained as a Pollinator Pocket presenter, so I will share more about this program later--probably this winter, when I'm not knee-deep in weeding and dead-heading,<br /><br />For today, though, let's look at a few of the natives blooming in my little butterfly garden, now officially designated as a "Pollinator Pocket."<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YvSx8bSbIFA/V5zPR1VbTII/AAAAAAAAPYU/oicQ2pBb3j8DN6p0mdlkj7H-w3mHRG8TwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4668%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YvSx8bSbIFA/V5zPR1VbTII/AAAAAAAAPYU/oicQ2pBb3j8DN6p0mdlkj7H-w3mHRG8TwCLcB/s640/DSCN4668%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />For the last few weeks, the gray-headed coneflowers, also known simply as yellow coneflowers, have been commanding attention in the Butterfly Garden as they sway in the breeze above the shorter natives. &nbsp;Although they are called coneflowers, they are not an <i>Echinacea </i>at all, but belong to another genus <i>Ratibida pinnata.</i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PCzWsiURKhI/V5zPjqhggUI/AAAAAAAAPYc/NipqcrKLa9AMY7qC3bSbRSk9gLH0aYk2ACLcB/s1600/DSCN4799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PCzWsiURKhI/V5zPjqhggUI/AAAAAAAAPYc/NipqcrKLa9AMY7qC3bSbRSk9gLH0aYk2ACLcB/s640/DSCN4799.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The drooping florets are topped by a head that initially is green/gray, but gradually turns brown. &nbsp;I've found no info to support my theory, but it appears that the head slowly turns brown from the bottom up, kind of like a reverse balding process.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-35mfw-CyQ6E/V5zQG0SzjvI/AAAAAAAAPYs/EiEmWesLpj8wkRvkiltlq7rJ2cfvgc8cACLcB/s1600/DSCN4963%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-35mfw-CyQ6E/V5zQG0SzjvI/AAAAAAAAPYs/EiEmWesLpj8wkRvkiltlq7rJ2cfvgc8cACLcB/s640/DSCN4963%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Growing up to four feet tall, the gray-headed coneflower is a common sight in many prairie plantings and is especially attractive to many species of bees. &nbsp;It's easy to grow, adapting to many soil and moisture conditions, and--so far--doesn't seem to be an aggressive spreader.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cGPbXMXyWc/V5zQJP0L7JI/AAAAAAAAPYw/D5xlI4oa1aserty74wOs9OLYM6uVzI0AwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4959%2B%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="548" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3cGPbXMXyWc/V5zQJP0L7JI/AAAAAAAAPYw/D5xlI4oa1aserty74wOs9OLYM6uVzI0AwCLcB/s640/DSCN4959%2B%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another native blooming right now is Joe-Pye Weed, <i>&nbsp;Eutrochium spp.</i> &nbsp;Actually, I'm not sure what type of Joe-Pye weed this is; as I've mentioned before, mine looks quite different from most Joes I've seen in gardens. &nbsp;The flowerheads are fluffier, the stems aren't purple, and well, frankly, it's not as pretty as other Joes. &nbsp;I suspect it is a straight species of some type. &nbsp;For a much more attractive plant, check out <a href="http://www.clayandlimestone.blogspot.com/">Gail's </a>post featuring the Joe-Pye weed this WW.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZXQEn6azJc/V5zQL82rxOI/AAAAAAAAPY0/oU94okwWCUUlM0ODpg9Dm7STLKpuAlGMwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eZXQEn6azJc/V5zQL82rxOI/AAAAAAAAPY0/oU94okwWCUUlM0ODpg9Dm7STLKpuAlGMwCLcB/s640/DSCN4972.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Joe-Pye weeds are such bee magnets, they are a great addition to any pollinator garden. &nbsp;But for gardeners who don't have room for these 5-7' tall beauties, 'Little Joe' is an excellent alternative, growing only to 3-4 feet tall. &nbsp;Notice the much prettier flowerhead on my 'Little Joe' and the purple stems compared to the tall one previously.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PKASF9lfpBA/V5zQdIfkgGI/AAAAAAAAPY8/_frL2m27UBgxalJxJB00cjc0nnkB4MCBgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4961%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="576" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PKASF9lfpBA/V5zQdIfkgGI/AAAAAAAAPY8/_frL2m27UBgxalJxJB00cjc0nnkB4MCBgCLcB/s640/DSCN4961%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Every spring I weed and thin out the thugs in this area and plant some new seedlings, but after that, it's pretty much on its own. &nbsp;So you never know what might pop up during the season. &nbsp;Smack dab in the middle of the garden right now is this Queen Anne's Lace, <i>Daucus Carota</i>. &nbsp;Many people think of this plant as a weed, but I've always had a special fondness for it and am happy to see it make an appearance this year. &nbsp;For the past couple of weeks the roadsides have been lined with Queen Anne's Lace and Chicory, one of my favorite wildflower combos that always brings a smile to my face.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E2JBqZXSdmI/V5zQejBOfjI/AAAAAAAAPZA/RleN6uOhedc1uWQ3m4cbYnXFm0vxln3LgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4962%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="552" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E2JBqZXSdmI/V5zQejBOfjI/AAAAAAAAPZA/RleN6uOhedc1uWQ3m4cbYnXFm0vxln3LgCLcB/s640/DSCN4962%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Another plant that popped up rather out of place is this hollyhock. &nbsp;Once I had many hollyhocks, descendants of plants from my grandmother and my husband's grandfather. &nbsp;But in recent years they have fallen victim to rust, so when a new plant springs up--no matter how out of place it might be--I let it grow, hoping I'll eventually get a healthy crop of them once again.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tQEV4GqrTwU/V5zQiMGRGsI/AAAAAAAAPZI/RxyesG2oKSg6g1QrcF4hlns0l5e4wyphwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tQEV4GqrTwU/V5zQiMGRGsI/AAAAAAAAPZI/RxyesG2oKSg6g1QrcF4hlns0l5e4wyphwCLcB/s640/DSCN4966.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />One plant that has really grown taller this year is Tansy, <i>Tanacetum vulgare. </i>&nbsp;This is one of those plants I purchased at a gardener's plant sale without knowing much about it. &nbsp;It's actually not a native, having been introduced from Europe many years ago, and can be invasive in some places. &nbsp;But it does provide nectar and pollen for small bees, flies, and wasps, and I think the button-like flowerheads are kind of cool. &nbsp;We'll see if it gets too aggressive in my garden--it will have to duke it out with the asters and goldenrod first. &nbsp;Sticking up in the forefront of the photo are the seedheads of blackberry lilies, whose blooms faded before I ever got a chance to photograph them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yFXBCNP02pI/V5zQj-nq_KI/AAAAAAAAPZM/iLYqhq1brn8WdFw9ThkaCl4vrKEG9QApwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yFXBCNP02pI/V5zQj-nq_KI/AAAAAAAAPZM/iLYqhq1brn8WdFw9ThkaCl4vrKEG9QApwCLcB/s640/DSCN4967.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Peeking out behind the Tansy is the Butterfly Weed, <i>Asclepias Tuberosa.</i> &nbsp;While I have trouble getting other milkweeds to grow here for some reason, Butterfly Weed has done well, though it takes time to get established.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_lrK7SzpTEQ/V5zPl54AAHI/AAAAAAAAPYg/_Fg0wFIctyUy5Ohf9bvr2mR28nGGr0fdQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4805%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="632" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_lrK7SzpTEQ/V5zPl54AAHI/AAAAAAAAPYg/_Fg0wFIctyUy5Ohf9bvr2mR28nGGr0fdQCLcB/s640/DSCN4805%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />There are other plants blooming as well right now in the Butterfly Garden including a few coneflowers and Black-eyed Susans hiding out at the back.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1n6X_89yDI8/V55Dia53UTI/AAAAAAAAPZg/KZR_E6m8Ss8KzKlT1xMLehD7lhgrOwTvQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1n6X_89yDI8/V55Dia53UTI/AAAAAAAAPZg/KZR_E6m8Ss8KzKlT1xMLehD7lhgrOwTvQCLcB/s640/DSCN4968.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Not so shy, though, are the Brown-eyed Susans, <i>Rudbeckia triloba</i>, blooming along one edge of this flower bed. &nbsp;This plant is not for the faint of heart or one with limited garden space. &nbsp;The first year it mysteriously appeared here I had one plant, the next year two or three, and this year--well, let's just say, I did a lot of digging and sending perfectly robust plants to the compost pile.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XN_Xhgg98sY/V55Djzx_-kI/AAAAAAAAPZk/ewZqXswVwWgTyBu7ViuhIFu383HiNsZZwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XN_Xhgg98sY/V55Djzx_-kI/AAAAAAAAPZk/ewZqXswVwWgTyBu7ViuhIFu383HiNsZZwCLcB/s640/DSCN4971.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Still, these cheery blooms put on such a display late summer through fall that I just don't have the heart to eradicate them completely--as if I could:)<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UfYeEjGxWl8/V5zP0OY8vQI/AAAAAAAAPYk/Dhkkw7wO_PA8W7De13ZMzaDAivfbF0nIQCEw/s1600/DSCN4811%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UfYeEjGxWl8/V5zP0OY8vQI/AAAAAAAAPYk/Dhkkw7wO_PA8W7De13ZMzaDAivfbF0nIQCEw/s640/DSCN4811%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Native plants aren't the only choice if you are planting a pollinator-friendly garden. &nbsp;Volunteer dill in the vegetable garden has been a tasty treat for some very hungry caterpillars.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xAz9gcx36Ac/V5zPanINWnI/AAAAAAAAPYY/3-q4-DjyxXQxzK-AI-rQ5hKPxOMyheTIwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4748%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xAz9gcx36Ac/V5zPanINWnI/AAAAAAAAPYY/3-q4-DjyxXQxzK-AI-rQ5hKPxOMyheTIwCLcB/s640/DSCN4748%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />You know I couldn't write a post in July without just one more coneflower:) &nbsp;If I had to choose one summer-blooming plant that attracted a host of pollinators, it would have to be purple coneflowers. &nbsp;Butterflies and various bees including this very large bumble bee have been enjoying these flowers since they first began to bloom in late June.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.clayandlimestone.blogspot.com/">Wildflower Wednesday</a> is held the fourth Wednesday of every month, and anyone is welcome to join in. &nbsp;Thanks to <a href="http://www.clayandlimestone.blogspot.com/">Gail f</a>or always being a great hostess and welcoming even those of us who are late to the party.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9125698507772106631.post-2731050829558053562016-07-19T09:33:00.000-05:002016-07-19T09:33:07.777-05:00July Bloom Day Late EditionI'm several days late for this month's celebration of Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day, but I couldn't miss this month--it's the height of the garden season, the time of year when <b><i>everything </i></b>seems to be blooming in my garden. &nbsp;Garden work has been put on hold the past two weeks, but the blooms keep a-coming without any help from me.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gSxSdxfb1II/V42CPLw4WCI/AAAAAAAAPUk/cKemYtNOfPgZ1agnaRwaTXvcODpxL6zHgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4714%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gSxSdxfb1II/V42CPLw4WCI/AAAAAAAAPUk/cKemYtNOfPgZ1agnaRwaTXvcODpxL6zHgCLcB/s640/DSCN4714%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="564" /></a></div><br />Daughter and her family, including youngest grandson, were here the week of July 4, so naturally I was focusing on lots of hugging and play time, not gardening. &nbsp;As soon as they left, Younger Daughter and I took off for nearly a week in Washington, D.C. &nbsp;It was my first trip ever to D.C., and I hope it won't be my last--there is so much to see and do in this city, I &nbsp;didn't get to see everything I had wanted to see, though we certainly tried.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjQRsR_Yh0U/V42JI3Mlk6I/AAAAAAAAPW8/Mx3y3ap1aIAq0oBmBBUtbjrJam8RQMIaACLcB/s1600/DSCN4766%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjQRsR_Yh0U/V42JI3Mlk6I/AAAAAAAAPW8/Mx3y3ap1aIAq0oBmBBUtbjrJam8RQMIaACLcB/s640/DSCN4766%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />While we were gone, Mr. Procrastinator, also known as Mr. I-Don't-Garden, volunteered to keep all my containers watered. &nbsp;He did a great job, although a downpour one day helped:) &nbsp;The little red wagon I planted just before the Fourth of July is looking much better than before I left.<br /><br />This is the time of year when I would welcome visitors to my garden. &nbsp;Coneflowers are everywhere and attracting bees and butterflies galore. &nbsp;If you want to see all my coneflowers, check out my last post. &nbsp;But they're not alone: &nbsp;my addiction to daylilies the last few years has resulted in an explosion of color that has lasted several weeks and is still going strong. &nbsp;I have so many different daylilies that rather than show individual photos, I decided to make a collage of some with i.d.'s below.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u421KJASOOI/V42BiNia_2I/AAAAAAAAPUY/Q4hwHP_M8usdU9dyb9TM3pT1DwftpT96gCLcB/s1600/DSCN4769-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u421KJASOOI/V42BiNia_2I/AAAAAAAAPUY/Q4hwHP_M8usdU9dyb9TM3pT1DwftpT96gCLcB/s640/DSCN4769-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp;<b>Top Row:</b> &nbsp;Nettie's Rubies*, NOID passalong from friend Barb, NOID yellow. &nbsp;<b>Middle Row: </b>'Little Grapette, mystery NOID, newer unnamed hybrid. <b>Bottom Row</b>: &nbsp;'Tangerine Orange Ruffle', Andrea's Dragonfly*, Prairie Sunrise*.<br /><br />*Those marked with an asterisk are not registered lilies, so please don't report me to the daylily police:) &nbsp;They are either passalongs from friends or relatives or one-of-a-kind hybrids that I purchased from our local<a href="http://www.5acrefarmdaylilies.com/"> 5 Acre Daylily Farm</a>&nbsp;and decided to name myself.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vj807ODc2F8/V42Ieg4_KZI/AAAAAAAAPWw/s9ojWzwWhwQ3dYH3GtijdV2i_uZVsKTLACLcB/s1600/DSCN4628-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vj807ODc2F8/V42Ieg4_KZI/AAAAAAAAPWw/s9ojWzwWhwQ3dYH3GtijdV2i_uZVsKTLACLcB/s640/DSCN4628-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b>Clockwise from top left:</b> Passalong from friend Beckie, Nettie's Coral*, 'Susan Webber,' Spider lily, and 'Tangerine Orange Ruffle'...again.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CLRVC3CmDxk/V44mWhaTyfI/AAAAAAAAPX0/J4HfhABMcCEYsomUwh-8ZdSo1PaFLUwMACLcB/s1600/DSCN4637.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CLRVC3CmDxk/V44mWhaTyfI/AAAAAAAAPX0/J4HfhABMcCEYsomUwh-8ZdSo1PaFLUwMACLcB/s640/DSCN4637.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I'm doing my best to remember all the names of these lilies, but with misplaced tags and my unreliable memory, it gets harder every year, especially when I seem to have so many peach and orange-colored lilies. &nbsp;Then there are the mystery lilies, like this one that I forgot to include in a collage--I have absolutely no memory of planting this one!<br /><br />The names I definitely remember are my small collection of "literary lilies" below. &nbsp;Even though I don't know where I'll put them, I hope to add even more in the next few years as I find them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVdm_yfigm0/V42BlAUclYI/AAAAAAAAPUc/PcikUB8rjuwzkbCL0NuA4L4zTc5_zmZsgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4462%2B%25282%2529-COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVdm_yfigm0/V42BlAUclYI/AAAAAAAAPUc/PcikUB8rjuwzkbCL0NuA4L4zTc5_zmZsgCLcB/s640/DSCN4462%2B%25282%2529-COLLAGE.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>Clockwise from top left</b>: 'Divine Comedy,' &nbsp;'Tennyson,' 'Romeo Is Bleeding,' no idea, 'Canterbury Tales,' and Juliet.*</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These are doing well, especially Juliet, one of my self-named lilies. &nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">She produced so many blooms that poor 'Romeo' looked pretty puny next to her this year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GcWUTcc3duE/V42Cy_tYRNI/AAAAAAAAPUs/2FCrQJjTh4cMPqxARfRFM1qoBPjxuuq5QCLcB/s1600/DSCN4788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GcWUTcc3duE/V42Cy_tYRNI/AAAAAAAAPUs/2FCrQJjTh4cMPqxARfRFM1qoBPjxuuq5QCLcB/s640/DSCN4788.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">My favorite deserves a photo all by herself--'Mistress Prynne.'&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;No scarlet letter here--I love her pale ruffled petals.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnvBEnt97Ro/V42C4hPXWRI/AAAAAAAAPU0/4TJcVyozVsUWjRpdw1RdeMNobsWEpoF5wCLcB/s1600/DSCN4661%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="502" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NnvBEnt97Ro/V42C4hPXWRI/AAAAAAAAPU0/4TJcVyozVsUWjRpdw1RdeMNobsWEpoF5wCLcB/s640/DSCN4661%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Besides the daylilies, the Oriental lilies have begun to bloom in the last week. &nbsp;I'm not sure there is anything that can rival 'Stargazer' for sheer beauty.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mG7cnUcKuLw/V42DC092Y5I/AAAAAAAAPU4/CYsjleMXgj4Vc2XY0Ui4qfzVrjRRJLkXACLcB/s1600/DSCN4866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mG7cnUcKuLw/V42DC092Y5I/AAAAAAAAPU4/CYsjleMXgj4Vc2XY0Ui4qfzVrjRRJLkXACLcB/s640/DSCN4866.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Unless you prefer the pristine white and intoxicating fragrance of 'Casablanca.' &nbsp;A swallowtail butterfly apparently prefers it, flitting among the many blossoms as I was taking photos yesterday.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cdLbhPsmHbQ/V42DI0Y8yyI/AAAAAAAAPU8/vPwyg9j_Hgg0gb2sYZ1o-6nPiKReFry2QCLcB/s1600/DSCN4872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cdLbhPsmHbQ/V42DI0Y8yyI/AAAAAAAAPU8/vPwyg9j_Hgg0gb2sYZ1o-6nPiKReFry2QCLcB/s640/DSCN4872.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />My love for lilies has branched out to other types as well. &nbsp;Last year I planted some Orienpets 'Black Beauty.' &nbsp;I'm glad to see how tall they have gotten this year, tall enough that I don't have to bend down to see their blooms.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BOlKySd7HQQ/V42DLK45JoI/AAAAAAAAPVA/q6BUY1q24nAGouU9mieyGBvjmElFUGsiwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BOlKySd7HQQ/V42DLK45JoI/AAAAAAAAPVA/q6BUY1q24nAGouU9mieyGBvjmElFUGsiwCLcB/s640/DSCN4875.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />A new lily this year growing next to 'Black Beauty' is this one which has me scratching my head. &nbsp;I remember planting something called Turkish lilies, I believe. &nbsp;There is a native lily called Turk's cap, but I thought it was only orange. &nbsp;Hmmm, will have to check back through my records to see if I can find the real name of this one.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1a-_duyhMyY/V42D4yGyCTI/AAAAAAAAPVI/WAUjrfcybhYkFiE1M4P6jflinD3esKWOACLcB/s1600/DSCN4799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1a-_duyhMyY/V42D4yGyCTI/AAAAAAAAPVI/WAUjrfcybhYkFiE1M4P6jflinD3esKWOACLcB/s640/DSCN4799.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Although coneflowers and lilies draw most of the attention in my garden, they are not the only flowers blooming right now. Gray-headed coneflowers <i>Ratibida pinnata</i> rise above the mass confusion in my butterfly garden.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PbqD2zhewU/V42D-FvSdLI/AAAAAAAAPVM/0uibuYCkCVsTWs3BWNUWsOF08_wDvX04wCLcB/s1600/DSCN4790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9PbqD2zhewU/V42D-FvSdLI/AAAAAAAAPVM/0uibuYCkCVsTWs3BWNUWsOF08_wDvX04wCLcB/s640/DSCN4790.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br />A new bloom that greeted me when I returned from D.C. was the Nicotania. &nbsp;For the past several years it has re-seeded all over my arbor bed, threatening to take over at times. &nbsp;I pulled most of the seedlings this year, but I always miss a few. &nbsp;A few are fine with me, especially as a backdrop for 'Wendy's Wish' Salvia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-IKHyL2zWg/V42EF2JrBdI/AAAAAAAAPVU/gYcjVMOXARk05iVsoNTombmoiImciMdZgCLcB/s1600/DSCN4730%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="616" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-IKHyL2zWg/V42EF2JrBdI/AAAAAAAAPVU/gYcjVMOXARk05iVsoNTombmoiImciMdZgCLcB/s640/DSCN4730%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Another volunteer/gift from the birds, the pink phlox in the shade garden is beginning to bloom.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dY1OzVMg0kc/V42EuwJd9DI/AAAAAAAAPVc/oIDAcXbAi_MRYAb0icvJdfBpDeZIFJQ2QCLcB/s1600/DSCN4776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dY1OzVMg0kc/V42EuwJd9DI/AAAAAAAAPVc/oIDAcXbAi_MRYAb0icvJdfBpDeZIFJQ2QCLcB/s640/DSCN4776.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Meanwhile, back in the Arbor Bed the 'David' phlox is thriving this year. &nbsp;I love these pure white blooms!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZs_FJ9WUA4/V42Ey8iijpI/AAAAAAAAPVk/PyxGuhAwp5c_1krCBjLtt64nzC5PJKMHQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4726%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nZs_FJ9WUA4/V42Ey8iijpI/AAAAAAAAPVk/PyxGuhAwp5c_1krCBjLtt64nzC5PJKMHQCLcB/s640/DSCN4726%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The annual hibiscus planted in a container is finally producing more than one bloom at a time--unfortunately, they are quickly devoured by Japanese beetles.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T0jPs_evtrU/V42E7vX1m5I/AAAAAAAAPVo/qbCE6pLtcxsmP3cHZw1dTYkVwOVT1tOhQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T0jPs_evtrU/V42E7vX1m5I/AAAAAAAAPVo/qbCE6pLtcxsmP3cHZw1dTYkVwOVT1tOhQCLcB/s640/DSCN4732.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The shade garden is lush--and crowded--as it is every summer. &nbsp;I wish I knew the name of this hosta in the forefront of the garden. &nbsp;It's one of my favorites, and it is getting huge!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWl16e9kSU8/V42E9KikKzI/AAAAAAAAPVs/RaEwBXOk64MAsqo3EZyfq6w3NK0GCBZXwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4739%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="568" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WWl16e9kSU8/V42E9KikKzI/AAAAAAAAPVs/RaEwBXOk64MAsqo3EZyfq6w3NK0GCBZXwCLcB/s640/DSCN4739%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Not everyone likes the blooms on hostas, but I enjoy them, and so do the bumblebees. &nbsp;This fellow was crawling into every bloom, coming out covered in pollen.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pQQ4Dag32Yw/V42FAUdLkaI/AAAAAAAAPVw/3rZ9GleFbyYkFv-GS736Cmgvmaymn3K8gCLcB/s1600/DSCN4728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pQQ4Dag32Yw/V42FAUdLkaI/AAAAAAAAPVw/3rZ9GleFbyYkFv-GS736Cmgvmaymn3K8gCLcB/s640/DSCN4728.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sophie likes this garden, too--no wonder I can't keep the bird bath filled!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UAUQGG5fy5k/V42FRdoiNbI/AAAAAAAAPV4/a45Noj8-3mIWrEgmpy4FtIZ0FecxUwZXwCLcB/s1600/DSCN4744%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UAUQGG5fy5k/V42FRdoiNbI/AAAAAAAAPV4/a45Noj8-3mIWrEgmpy4FtIZ0FecxUwZXwCLcB/s640/DSCN4744%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">One of my favorites in late summer/early fall, the 'Limelight' is already starting to bloom. &nbsp;I pruned it quite a bit this spring, but obviously not as much as I thought--it's already reached the roof of our one-story house.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-At86-UgFv0M/V42FJ9HH-tI/AAAAAAAAPV0/MPgqpzy2X0U57GsYqK7PXKla-5PDRrNTQCLcB/s1600/DSCN4765%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="554" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-At86-UgFv0M/V42FJ9HH-tI/AAAAAAAAPV0/MPgqpzy2X0U57GsYqK7PXKla-5PDRrNTQCLcB/s640/DSCN4765%2B%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I just can't leave here without one more photo of one of my many coneflowers. &nbsp;I was thrilled to have another visit from a Monarch on Sunday--this one is a female. &nbsp;I hope she finds some milkweed in my garden to lay some eggs!<br /><br />July is such a beautiful, colorful time in the garden; I wish I could stop time for awhile. &nbsp;It's been very hot so not much garden work has been done, but that's okay--I am content to just sit back and enjoy all the blooms in my garden. <br /><br />Garden Bloggers' Bloom Day is brought to you the 15th of each month by <a href="http://www.maydreamsgardens.blogspot.com/">Carol of May Dreams Gardens.</a> &nbsp;Thanks, Carol, for hosting this showcase of blooms around the world once again.Rosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01384059342847120951noreply@blogger.com33